Shia families in Madhya Pradesh will observe a muted Eid al-Fitr as a tribute to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in an Israel-U.S. strike, a community leader said on Sunday (March 15, 2026).
“It will be a silent Eid for us this year,” All India Shia Samaj State president Iftikhar Ali told PTI from Burhanpur. The death of Khamenei, 86, in a major attack launched by the U.S. and Israel was announced on March 1 by Iranian state television.
“Around 4,000 Shia families are living in Madhya Pradesh. We will not wear new clothes or celebrate Eid this year as we are saddened by Khamenei’s death. We will only offer namaz,” added Mr. Ali.
He said the community will not stage any protest, but will observe a sombre Eid upon sighting the crescent moon, either next Friday (March 20, 2026) or Saturday (March 21).
The Shia population is largely concentrated in Bhopal, Jabalpur, Indore, Vidisha, Ujjain, Burhanpur, Itarsi in Narmadapuram district and Jaora in Ratlam district.
Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan and is one of the most important Islamic celebrations. It begins with a communal prayer and is followed by visits to relatives, giving gifts, and sharing meals.
Published – March 16, 2026 10:37 am IST
