Eid ul-Fitr 2026 Moon Sighting Timings In India: Here's When Chand Raat Will Be Celebrated In Delhi, Hyderabad

The holy month of Ramadan drew to a close across India today, as Muslims awaited the sighting of the Shawwal crescent to mark the beginning of Eid al-Fitr 2026. From Delhi to Kerala, the evening sky became the focal point of anticipation, with religious scholars, moon sighting committees, and local communities looking for confirmation that would signal the end of a month defined by fasting, prayer, and reflection.

In keeping with tradition, India continues to follow a decentralized system of moon sighting. Bodies such as the Markazi Ruyat-e-Hilal Committee play a key role in gathering reports from across the country before making an official announcement. However, regional variations remain common, with different states sometimes declaring Eid on separate days depending on local sightings and testimonies.

This year, reports of moon sightings began to emerge from parts of western India shortly after sunset, while other regions awaited confirmation. In many cities, mosques made announcements late into the evening, urging people to stay tuned for official declarations. The uncertainty, while momentary, is an integral part of the cultural and religious fabric of the observance in India.

City	Expected Moonrise Time
Delhi	6:30 PM - 7:00 PM
Lucknow	6:20 PM - 6:50 PM
Hyderabad	6:25 PM - 6:55 PM
Chennai	6:20 PM - 6:50 PM
Kerala	6:20 PM - 6:45 PM
Bengaluru	6:30 PM - 7:00 PM
Mumbai	6:45 PM - 7:15 PM

Markets and public spaces reflected the festive mood even before the official confirmation. Crowds thronged bazaars for last-minute shopping, purchasing clothes, sweets, and gifts in preparation for Eid celebrations. Sweet shops reported brisk business, while households prepared for the traditional feasts that follow the morning prayers.

Eid al-Fitr in India is not only a religious occasion but also a social one, marked by communal harmony and shared joy. Special prayers at mosques and open grounds are expected to draw large gatherings, followed by visits to friends and relatives. Acts of charity, particularly the giving of zakat al-fitr, remain central to the celebrations, ensuring that even the less privileged can partake in the festivities.

As Ramadan 2026 comes to an end today, the sighting of the crescent moon once again underscores a centuries-old tradition that continues to unite millions across India-linking faith, community, and the simple act of looking up at the night sky.