Between tradition and solidarity: Hyderabad prepares for a reflective Eid amid global conflicts

Hyderabad: As the holy month of Ramzan draws to a close, the streets of Hyderabad, from the shimmering Laad Bazar to the bustling Haleem centres, are buzzing with preparation.

But this year, the holiday joy is mixed with quiet thoughts for those suffering in wars far away.

While the city’s age-old traditions remain intact, the community’s mood is a complex blend of resilient celebration and deep empathy for those caught in global conflicts.

‘Festive spirit should remain undiminished’

For many, the essence of Eid lies in its ability to provide joy even in the darkest of times.

Maria from the Access Foundation emphasised that the spirit of the festival should remain undiminished, regardless of the global climate. “It is not necessarily a ‘mellowed down’ Eid,” Maria said.

“Even in places like Gaza, where war is ongoing, it is celebrated with full spirit and happiness. We are not supposed to feel sad on the day of Eid; we are supposed to be happy and celebrate. The celebration should go on with full spirit everywhere in the world,” added Maria.

Spreading positivity across city

This sentiment is echoed by the city’s business community, who view the festival as a vital thread of continuity. Shahbaz Hussain, a prominent Hyderabad-based businessman, is preparing for his family’s 25-year-old tradition of gathering at his residence.

“It’s a slow celebration, but as usual, we are hosting our annual Eid Milad for about 250 people. Eid has to go on,” Hussain explained.

While the festivities continue, he notes that the suffering of civilians remains at the forefront of everyone’s mind. “Our prayers are with people all over the world to be safe, whether in Israel or America. It is a time to pray for everyone’s peace. In everybody’s hearts, whether they are Hindus or Muslims, there is a wish that the war must end and civilians must be safe,” said Hussain.

However, for some, the weight of global tragedy has called for a more sombre approach to the festivities.

Prayers for those who are suffering

MA Faiz Khan, Vice President of the Hyderabad Public School (HPS) Managing Committee, described this year’s mood as more restrained and contemplative.

“Our hearts remain heavy with sorrow over the suffering caused by conflicts across the world,” Khan said.

“As Eid is being marked in a more quiet and restrained manner this year, we humbly bow in gratitude to the Almighty. The sense of loss is profound when we think of families separated during a time meant for togetherness,” added Khan.

Khan emphasised that the focus this year has shifted toward humanitarian empathy. “We raise our hands in prayer for peace and protection for all innocent lives enduring hardship. May the Almighty instil in us deeper compassion and bless the world with harmony and unity across all His creation,” hoped Khan.

As Hyderabadis prepare to offer their Eid prayers, the consensus remains that alongside biryani preparations and Mehendi decorations, the celebrations of 2026 are defined by a collective hope for global peace.

Whether through grand traditions or quiet prayers, the city stands in solidarity with those for whom this Eid is marked by uncertainty.