Eid al-Fitr 2026: Kerala marks Cheriya Perunnal with grand celebrations

Eid al-Fitr was observed across Kerala on Friday with prayers, celebrations, and a strong sense of community spirit.

Locally referred to as Cheriya Perunnal, the festival was marked by special prayers in mosques and Eidgahs set up in cities including Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi, Kozhikode and Malappuram. Thousands of devotees gathered early in the morning to offer prayers, greet one another, and later return home to celebrate the day with their loved ones.

The festival signifies the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, prayer, and spiritual reflection.

Leaders from across the political spectrum conveyed their greetings on the occasion.

Leader of the Opposition in the Kerala Assembly, V D Satheesan, in a Facebook post, noted that the faithful were celebrating Eid after a period of intense fasting and devotion.

“The month of fasting was a time for every believer to attain spiritual and physical purification. Along with self-discipline and inner cleansing, it was also a time to extend help and compassion to fellow human beings. Islam is a faith rooted in kindness, which teaches that those who have must give to those in need—and to practice it in everyday life,” he said.

He said that sacrifice, love and gratitude are at the heart of Eid al-Fitr and extended his Eid Mubarak wishes to people around the world.

Kerala Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar and Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan had also greeted the public on Thursday ahead of the celebrations.

BJP state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar shared his wishes through a Facebook post.

“On this joyous occasion, I extend my heartfelt Eid greetings to all my Muslim brothers and sisters. May this festival fill everyone’s lives with happiness, peace and prosperity,” he said.

He also called for unity and collective progress. “Once again, warm Eid wishes to all,” he said.

Education Minister V Sivankutty posted a picture from an Eid event, writing: “Equality and brotherhood. Warm wishes.”

Muslim League state president Sayyid Sadik Ali Shihab Thangal said the period of fasting had helped the faithful achieve spiritual growth.

“Eid is also a celebration of brotherhood and love. This day is observed to ensure prosperity for all,” he said.

He added that the practice of zakat, a form of charity associated with Eid al-Fitr, plays a vital role in ensuring that no one is left hungry.