Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Azha hold a special place in the hearts of Muslims worldwide. These joyous occasions mark moments of unity, gratitude, and celebration with loved ones.
From attending the early morning Eid prayers to relishing grand feasts, the festive spirit is evident in every home.
Among the various cherished customs of Eid, one tradition stands out across generations—giving and receiving salami.
Memories
As a child, one of the most exciting moments for me was waking up early on Eid, getting dressed in new clothes, and rushing to my dadi (grandmother) to receive salami from her.
This was always the first stop before eagerly collecting salami from my parents and relatives. My cousins and I followed this ritual religiously on every Eid, cherishing the joy it brought us.
Even now, as an adult, I still eagerly await salami—not for the money itself, but for the love and blessings it represents.
Cultural significance of salami
The tradition of salami has deep cultural roots in Muslim communities.
The act of giving salami is more than just a monetary exchange; it serves as a token of appreciation and a thoughtful gift.
It is a symbol of warmth from elders, and a beautiful reminder of the joy that has been passed down through generations
Historically, salami has been a way to teach children the concept of generosity.
Just as they receive during childhood, they later grow up to give, continuing the cycle of kindness.
Shift from receiving to giving
Receiving salami on Eid is a timeless tradition, deeply woven into the celebration. Children eagerly await their father’s return from the mosque after the Eid prayer, bowing down and touching his feet as a sign of respect before receiving their salami.
Though this practice has faded in some families over the years, it has not disappeared entirely.
While some continue to uphold the tradition, others have adapted it to modern expressions of respect.
As I grew up collecting salami and stepped into adulthood, the time came for me to take on a new role—the transition from receiving to giving salami.
There is a unique joy in handing over salami and witnessing the excitement on the faces of younger family members.
Spirit of generosity and unity
Beyond salami, Eid is synonymous with acts of giving. Charity, or zakat, is a fundamental part of Eid-ul-Fitr, ensuring that the less fortunate can also partake in the celebrations.
Families prepare lavish meals and invite neighbors and friends, strengthening the bonds of community.
Eid-ul-Azha, on the other hand, emphasizes sacrifice and sharing, where meat from the sacrificed animal is distributed among the poor, relatives, and friends.
These acts of generosity highlight the core values of Eid—kindness, sharing, and gratitude.
Preserving the tradition
As times change, traditions evolve, but the essence of salami remains a beloved part of Eid.
Whether given in cash, through a bank transfer, or as a thoughtful gift, it is a gesture of love that transcends generations.
What makes salami special is the emotions tied to it—the anticipation, the exchange of blessings, and the continuity of a heartwarming practice.
Whether you are a child eagerly waiting for salami or an adult happily passing it on, the tradition brings a unique joy that makes Eid even more memorable.
