'Meethi Eid' lights up Lahore with festive spirit

Emotional homecomings, vibrant gatherings highlight festivities

LAHORE:

As the crescent of Shawwal appeared over the skyline of Lahore, a wave of celebration swept across the city, transforming its streets, homes and hearts.

From the bustling boulevards of Gulberg to the narrow lanes of the Walled City, Eidul Fitr brought with it not just festivity, but a powerful sense of connection, tradition and belonging.

At Allama Iqbal International Airport, scenes of emotional reunions captured the true spirit of Eid. Among the arrivals was Kamran, who had returned from the United Kingdom after five years.

The moment he reached home, he embraced his elderly mother, breaking down in tears.

"I had everything abroad, but I didn't have this peace," he said, reflecting the emotions of many expatriates who return home for the festival.

Across the city, homes came alive with visiting relatives. By the second day of Eid, vehicles from southern districts such as Multan, Bahawalpur and Dera Ghazi Khan lined Lahore's streets, as families gathered to celebrate together. Modern houses quickly transformed into lively, traditional spaces filled with laughter, shared meals and constant movement.

In one such household, mattresses were spread across rooms, children queued outside bathrooms, and kitchens bustled with activity.

Visitors described the atmosphere as "beautiful chaos," where the warmth of relationships outweighed any inconvenience.

"Eid isn't complete without our traditions and food," said a guest from Multan, highlighting the cultural exchange that defines the festival.

Amid the celebrations, the role of women in hosting and managing households remained central.

Fehmida Kausar, a homemaker, spent the three days of Eid preparing meals and attending to guests. Despite the demanding routine, she remained cheerful.

"If the guests are happy, that is my Eid," she said, embodying the spirit of hospitality deeply rooted in local culture.

The aroma of traditional dishes like saffron pulao and mutton qorma filled the home, adding to the festive charm.

Public spaces across Lahore also witnessed large crowds. Families thronged parks and recreational spots, with children taking centre stage as they enjoyed their Eid celebrations.

At Lahore Zoo and Jilani Park, laughter and excitement were evident as children spent their Eidi on rides, snacks and treats.

"I'm buying ice cream for everyone," said a young boy proudly, clutching his cash gifts.

Beyond celebrations, Eid also served as a time for reconciliation and healing. Outside a mosque in the city, two brothers, estranged for years over a property dispute, embraced after Eid prayers, putting aside their differences.

Their reunion drew emotional responses from onlookers, highlighting the festival's deeper message of forgiveness and unity.

As the three days of Eid came to a close, families began to part ways. Visitors returned to their hometowns, while expatriates prepared to leave once again. Yet, the memories created during these days lingered, from heartfelt reunions to shared meals and renewed bonds.

Eid in Lahore, often referred to as "Meethi Eid," proved once again that the festival is not merely about new clothes or lavish food. Rather, it is a celebration of human connection — a reminder that true happiness lies in togetherness, compassion and the simple act of being present for one another.