Why India Celebrates Eid a Day After Saudi Arabia: Unpacking Moon Sighting & Sharia

• Eid-ul-Fitr, based on the Islamic lunar calendar, is celebrated on the first day of Shawwal, following the sighting of the new moon (Hilal).
• India celebrates Eid a day after Saudi Arabia primarily due to geographical location and time differences; Saudi Arabia is west of India, allowing the moon to be sighted there earlier.
• The Islamic principle of 'Ruyat-e-Hilal' emphasizes local moon sighting, meaning each region follows its own observation rather than relying on other countries.
• Indian 'Markazi Hilal Committees' confirm moon sightings based on local witnesses and scientific evidence, not Saudi Arabia's announcement.
• Exceptions like Kerala and sometimes Jammu and Kashmir may celebrate Eid with Saudi Arabia due to historical maritime connections and similar geographical conditions.