Revelers hit the beach, food streets

Women say having spent Ramazan in kitchen, eating out on Eid is their right

KARACHI:

The city dwellers made the most of the Eid-ul-Fitr holidays, enjoying three days of celebrations and entertainment.

Food streets and the beaches witnessed large crowds, while Eid fairs in the neighbourhoods of the old city area added to the festive spirit.

Youngsters and children, in particular, reveled in the festivities, making the most of their Eid holidays.

On the first day of Eid, after offering prayers, many citizens visited the graves of the dear departed ones then headed home for the traditional Eid breakfast.

Many spent the day visiting relatives to exchange Eid greetings. However, youth headed straight to recreational spots from the very first day. Many others took the opportunity to rest and hibernated for the day.

Besides family gatherings, thousands converged to city's hotspot the Seaview and Clifton beaches, while others headed to the few recreational parks left in the metropolis after the demolition of Aladin Park by the orders of Supreme Court bench headed by the then chief justice of Pakistan Justice Gulzar Ahmed.

Karachi Zoo, Safari Park, and Hill Park saw an expotential rush of visitors throughout the Eid holidays. Young people could be seen playing music in their cars, dancing, and celebrating with enthusiasm.

At the zoo, families and children enjoyed watching animals and took selfies with them. Meanwhile, at Seaview, children and youngsters delighted in camel and horse rides, while some ventured into the sea for a refreshing dip. A few adventurous youths even organised motorcycle races.

Interestingly, women in Eid dresses were seen splashing their feet in the seawater along the Clifton Beach. Several areas, including Orangi Town, Liaquatabad, and Korangi, hosted Eid fairs with amusement rides, camels, and food stalls, drawing crowds of all ages. Children eagerly spent their Eidi on attractions, adding to the festive atmosphere.

At an FC Area fair, Rida Khan remarked, "Ramazan was all about worship and kitchen duties for women. The first two days of Eid were for family, but today is for the children's enjoyment."

Young Fatima Ahmed added, "Eid has been amazing! The fair made it even more special." With improved security, Karachiites celebrated Eid in peace and joy.

Food Streets Bustle

Throughout the three days of Eid, Karachi's famous food streets-including Burns Road, Boat Basin, Hussainabad, Super Highway, Kharadar, Nazimabad, and Liaquatabad Dak Khana-remained crowded, especially at night.

The air was filled with the aroma of traditional dishes like biryani, pulao, and chicken or mutton karahi. However, barbecue items were the top choice, drawing the biggest crowds.

Women particularly enjoyed grilled tikka, various types of kebabs, sajji, gola kebabs, and reshmi kebabs, while children favored broast and burgers.

Many women shared that after spending Ramazan in worship and the kitchen, dining out on Eid was a must. "Eid wouldn't feel complete without an outing and a nice dinner," one visitor remarked. Children also expressed their excitement, saying, "After receiving Eidi and having fun, enjoying a great meal is what Eid is all about!" Meanwhile, some families chose to celebrate Eid at home, preparing special meals and enjoying the occasion in a more intimate setting.