Bhopal, March 15 Shia families in Madhya Pradesh will observe a subdued Eid-al-Fitr as a tribute to Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in an Israeli-US strike, a community leader said on Sunday.
"This year, Eid will be a quiet one for us," said Iftikhar Ali, president of the All India Shia Samaj in Madhya Pradesh, speaking to
The death of Khamenei, 86, in a major attack launched by the US and Israel was announced on March 1 by Iranian state television.
"Around 4,000 Shia families live in Madhya Pradesh. We will not wear new clothes or celebrate Eid this year because we are saddened by Khamenei's death. We will only offer prayers," added Ali.
He said the community will not stage any protests, but will observe a somber Eid upon sighting the crescent moon, either next Friday or Saturday.
The Shia population is largely concentrated in Bhopal, Jabalpur, Indore, Vidisha, Ujjain, Burhanpur, Itarsi in the Narmadapuram district and Jaora in the Ratlam district.
Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan and is one of the most important Islamic celebrations. It begins with a communal prayer and is followed by visits to relatives, giving gifts, and sharing meals.