A subdued, introspective Eid
This will be a different Eid that we will be observing after the holy month of Ramadan. For most of us, it will be within the confines of our home and deprived of the usual pleasure of seeing many loved ones. It will be different because our lives have been turned upside down by the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. It will be bleak for thousands who have lost their livelihoods and are in acute uncertainty about where the next meal will come from, how they will pay rent, how they will survive. And for more than a million people in nine districts, it will be a day of coping with the reality of lost homes, crops they grew and food they had stored destroyed by a devastating cyclone in the country's coastal areas. While the celebratory mood of Eid will be significantly dampened, let us not forget the spirit of Ramadan and Eid which is all the more relevant in the current scenario of despair, grief and uncertainty.
Eid is the time of giving generously to all those in need. And in no other time have there been so many people in such desperate conditions. The necessity to maintain social distancing and living in a semi-lockdown situation has made it difficult to be physically there for people, to distribute clothes or do any of the other altruistic activities associated with Eid. But that should not stop those in more privileged positions to give monetary assistance more generously to those in need. It is a great opportunity to donate to the numerous organisations and groups that, with their dedicated volunteers, have been working relentlessly throughout this crisis, providing food, medical help, even giving dignified burials to Covid-19 victims. These noble souls will continue to carry out their selfless acts and they should be supported in every way possible. While the government is trying to tackle the huge challenges posed by Covid-19 and Cyclone Amphan, providing financial support and other relief endeavours, we must all try to do our bit as best as we can.
The regular camaraderie associated with Eid congregations and get-togethers may not be there this time around but this does not mean we cannot express our love for our fellow human beings with equal sincerity. This occasion warrants a renewed pledge to serve and support our community better and come together as a people fighting the worst odds we could imagine. For the frontline workers—the doctors, nurses, pathologists, cleaners, police, garbage collectors, security guards, and many others who are working round the clock and many will continue through the Eid holidays—we express our deepest gratitude and respect. Our thoughts and prayers for all those bravely fighting the virus in hospitals or at home as well as for those who have lost their loved ones during this pandemic.
We thank our dear readers and patrons for staying with us and supporting us during this crisis. Wishing everyone a safe and heartwarming Eid.
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