What is Chand Raat, the celebration observed in South Asia on the night before Eid al-Fitr?

Chand Raat is the night before Eid al-Fitr, celebrated across South Asia as Ramadan ends and Eid approaches.

The name comes from Urdu and Hindi words meaning “moon night.” It refers to the evening when the new crescent of Shawwal is traditionally sought, although official Eid dates can also be announced by religious authorities using other accepted methods.

Chand Raat is especially associated with busy markets, family visits, festive clothing, sweets, and the application of mehndi, or henna. Women and girls commonly decorate their hands, while families prepare for Eid prayers and gatherings.

It is not itself Eid al-Fitr. Eid begins on the following Islamic date, and the exact Gregorian date changes from year to year because the Islamic calendar is lunar. Customs also differ between countries and communities.