Lahore's love for food defines Eid festivities

Families celebrate event with traditional dishes, Eid gatherings

LAHORE:

In the provincial capital, famously known for its vibrant culture and passion for food, Eid festivities took on a unique colour.

For Lahorites, no celebration is complete without lavish feasts, sizzling barbecues and lively family get-togethers, all of which have become an inseparable part of the city's cultural identity.

The first day of Eid begins in a solemn and spiritual atmosphere as worshippers return from Eid prayers and the sounds of Takbeerat echo through streets and neighbourhoods.

Soon after, the ritual of sacrifice begins across the city.

One of Lahore's longstanding traditions is the generous distribution of sacrificial meat among the poor, deserving families and relatives before storing it for personal use.

Speaking to Express News, the family of Muhammad Aslam from Bhati Gate said that in the Walled City, it has long been a tradition for families to divide the meat into equal portions immediately after the butcher finishes his work.

"The first and largest share is delivered respectfully to deserving families in the neighbourhood because the true spirit of Eid lies in including those who cannot afford to buy meat regularly," they said.

As the second day of Eid arrives, Lahore's kitchens come alive with the aroma of traditional dishes and barbecue feasts.

The scent of BBQ, mutton karahi, Peshawari namkeen gosht and spicy liver delicacies fills entire neighbourhoods, while Eid Milan parties begin across the city.

Families separated by busy routines throughout the year reunite to celebrate together.

Kamran Chaudhry, a resident of Model Town, while preparing a barbecue setup in his lawn with family members, told Express News that their Eid Milan gathering had become an annual tradition eagerly awaited by everyone.

"All the cousins gather to light the coals, prepare the skewers and cook together. In these times of inflation and hectic lifestyles, Eidul Azha is one occasion that truly brings families closer again," he said.

Similarly, Begum Shamsa from Johar Town said her daughters and sons-in-law make it a point to visit her home on the second day of Eid. "I prepare traditional mutton paye and dum pukht especially for them. The joy of Eid doubles when the entire family sits together around the dining table," she added.