With the arrival of Eid al-Fitr, the atmosphere in cities and along roads has changed. People’s movements to visit relatives and friends increase, and the sounds of greetings and saying “Eid Mubarak” fill the streets. Even before the holiday, shops selling clothes, fruits, and sweets are crowded with customers preparing for the day. In the alleys, the sound of carpets being shaken could be heard, and young people are seen cleaning and decorating their homes.
Although the sounds of war and the smell of gunpowder can still be felt, people—especially the youth—say they have been accustomed to these circumstances, and no conflict can take away their joy during Eid. This report includes interviews with 24 young people preparing for Eid. Despite economic challenges, unemployment, and security issues—including recent incidents—they emphasize celebrating Eid with enthusiasm.
Yaser Gardizi, a journalism graduate from Paktia, says that his spending on Eid has decreased this year compared to previous years. Rising prices and higher costs have forced him to limit his purchases.
“I am currently unemployed. This year, our purchases are much lower than in previous years because prices have increased, and we cannot afford them due to our very poor economic situation.”
Zabihullah, a 35-year-old resident of Kabul, also says, “I work in a private-sector office. This year, our spending is much less than before because the rising prices of food, clothes, and other necessities have forced us to buy only the essentials.”
Asefa, 21-year-old from Daikundi, say that although she had to reduce her shopping, she still enjoy Eid in non-material ways. Visiting friends, seeing children’s smiles, and gathering with family are parts of the true joy of Eid for her, showing that even in difficult circumstances, hope and festive spirit remain alive in the hearts of young people.
″Eid is more meaningful when spent with family, friends, and loved ones. It should not be forgotten that new clothes and preparation for Eid give a very good feeling, but even if there are no new outfits, I try not to be upset. We have eliminated unnecessary purchases.″ she says.
Fatima Ahmadi, 29-year-old from Kabul, also express her opinion like this, ″Actually Eid is about visiting, togetherness, and gratitude, not about wearing fancy clothes, buying luxurious items, or decorating nice houses. Still, seeing children’s smiles and family gatherings can bring great happiness.″
14 of the interviewees say they celebrate Eid not to be judged by others, but for themselves. According to them, Eid brings genuine joy, and adhering to traditions inherited from their ancestors gives these festive days meaning and value.
Sohail Yari, 21-year-old from Kabul, says he does not compare his Eid shopping to others. He says, “We try not to compare ourselves to anyone. Eid during childhood and adolescence had a special excitement, but it still passes well. There is no particular reason; we are grateful to God that the whole family comes together. It is Eid, and that is happiness.”
Kawkaba Nawab, 25-year-old from Kabul, says that even if she does not have money for shopping, she accepts the situation and still welcomes Eid. She says,
“A mature and understanding person does not get upset. Of course, we are happier if we have money to buy things, but if we don’t, we are satisfied with what we have. Eid has its own meaning and beauty, and the happiness of the heart is more important. It does not matter if we don’t buy new clothes.”
Some interviewees also recall childhood memories and past Eids, saying that the Eid and its traditions are deeply rooted in them. They describe the excitement of those days as if the laughter, visits, and simple joys come alive again, taking the heart on a journey to the past.
Khalilullah Popal, 38-year-old, says that past Eids had a special atmosphere. On the first night of Eid, children—and even adults—could hardly sleep from excitement. With bread, eggs, roasted wheat, and a few pieces of chocolate, Eid was celebrated warmly and with togetherness. People also made “Doshaw” from grapes, a kind of jam that added sweetness to Eid. Back then, expenses were low, and everyone would entertain guests with whatever they had. The atmosphere was filled with children’s and young people’s laughter. He says,
“In past years, we had picnics. Eid is still Eid for me; nothing has changed, except that people’s economy is worse. In the past, homes were not so luxurious. Everyone prepared food according to their means and abilities. When you visited someone’s home, they would offer foods such as a piece of bread, an egg, roasted wheat, or chocolate to celebrate togetherness. For instance, the elders and I personally visited several homes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. That atmosphere is gone,” he says.
Abdul Hamid, 61-year-old, also says, ″People prepared a few days before Eid. Children and families were happy, hearts were calm, and people were cheerful. If they had something, they prepared it for Eid. In the past, when we were younger we would stay awake in excitement, making “Doshaw” from grapes, similar to jam.″
Meanwhile, officials from the Islamic Emirate’s Olympic Committee say that during Eid, special programs are organized in various sports sectors for young people in the capital and provinces.
Atal Mashwani, spokesperson for the Olympic Committee, told Salam Watandar, ″The sports administration plans to organize various sports competitions during Eid al-Fitr in Kabul and the provinces. These competitions include tournaments, sports leagues, and special sports festivals in some provinces. Such events undoubtedly play an important role in encouraging athletes, especially youth.″
Eid, one of the most significant and grand occasions for muslims, has always been marked by excitement, color, and a special atmosphere. From past to present, people have celebrated by preparing new clothes, making sweets, buying fruits, and gathering with family. However, in recent years, social changes and economic challenges have forced many families to limit their spending. Nevertheless, hope, enthusiasm, and the value of visiting family and friends remain strong among people, especially among young people.
Reporter: Sharifa Qasemi
