We all know that Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan. However, there is more to this event than we may well realise. Friends, families and communities gather from far and wide to strengthen the chords of love that binds us closely to one another. The festival is often filled with joy, delicious meals, stunning dresses, gift sharing, elaborate decorations and the streets bustling with exciting activities. Luton was certainly not left out of this year's Eid, with the third annual “Colours of Eid Festival” held at St George's Square, Luton, LU1 2NG, on the 13th of April, 2024. Here is what you need to know.
Colours of Eid festival is the first Eid parade event held in Luton and hosted by the art group Alif New Beginnings. Based on Islamic influence, the association's chief aim is to support and promote Islamic arts and crafts in diverse disciplines and to create costumes and encourage events where people come together to enjoy beautiful parades and processions full of community spirit and joy. Celebrating the colourful Colours of Eid festival is an exciting avenue to express their vision, as witnessed on this exquisite day.
As expected, during this recently concluded celebration, participants were treated to various events and activities, ranging from feasting to design. Of course, delicious meals are necessarily a major part of the Eid celebration, given its placement immediately after a month of fasting. So, traditional dishes such as biryani, samosas, sweets and other family recipes passed down through generations were a highlight for all.
The traditional Mehndi designs were another major spice of the festival, just like the food. Henna is believed to invoke the blessing of fresh beginnings. Henna artists were on site to help, especially the female participants, with distinctive designs and styles. Art and craft workshops were also popular, where people could learn henna painting, calligraphy and other traditional crafts. You befriended the enigmatic Luton-based calligraphy artist, Abu Yahya, creating an original piece live on stage, especially for Luton's big Eid weekend.
The performances were spectacular. DafZikir Drums pounded into the joyous sky, integrating engaging Islamic Sufi chants as the foundation of their rhythm. Riki Cycle was an environmentally-themed musical performance with puppetry and songs, where we learn about saving the planet. Zain Khan, an international nasheed artist from the UK, used his voice only in all his nasheeds and recited nasheeds in English, Urdu, Punjabi and Arabic.
There were many other highlights; the children from the Luton Turkish Education & Culture Trust, Luton's Medieval project and Maghrib Azaan & recitation. However, the Act of Kindness parade was so cool, led by the organizers, Alif New Beginning. It was a colourful parade showcasing diverse costumes.
In all, Luton's big Eid weekend highlighted the creativity of Islamic culture and celebrated diversity in Luton. It was a treasure to behold.
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