Eid ul-Fitr 2026 Moon Sighting City-Wise Timings In India: Delhi, Mumbai, Lucknow, Hyderabad and More

After a month of reflection, prayer, and dawn-to-dusk fasting, the wait for the ‘Meethi Eid’ is almost over. However, as is often the case with the lunar calendar, the moon has kept everyone guessing. While millions across India were looking at the skies on Thursday evening, the Shawwal crescent remained hidden in most parts of the country. Consequently, religious leaders have confirmed that Saturday, March 21, 2026, will be the official day of Eid ul-Fitr for the majority of India.

It is a bit of a split start this year, though. While most of us will be observing a 30th fast on Friday, the Shawwal moon was reportedly spotted in Kerala. This means our friends in the south will be heading to the Eidgahs a day early, celebrating the festival on Friday, 20 March.

Eid Moon Sighting 2026: When is Eid in India?

The big question on everyone’s lips, ‘Eid kab hai?’, now has a definitive answer for most Indian states. Since the moon wasn't sighted on Thursday, Friday becomes the 30th and final day of Ramadan. This completes the full month of fasting, leading into a grand celebration on Saturday, March 21, 2026.

ALSO READ- Eid ul-Fitr 2026 Correct Date and Time: When Will Eid Be Celebrated In India, Saudi Arabia And UAE?

Eid 2026 Moon Sighting Timings in India

If you are planning to head to your balcony or rooftop to catch a glimpse of the crescent on Friday evening, timing is everything. The window to spot the thin silver sliver of the moon is quite short, usually just after sunset.

If you are planning to spot the crescent moon on Friday evening, timing is crucial. The moon is usually visible for a short window just after sunset.

Here are the approximate moon sighting timings for major Indian cities:

• Delhi: 6:30 PM – 7:15 PM

• Mumbai: 6:45 PM – 7:30 PM

• Lucknow: 6:20 PM – 7:05 PM

• Hyderabad: 6:35 PM – 7:20 PM

• Kolkata: 5:55 PM – 6:40 PM

• Bengaluru: 6:30 PM – 7:15 PM

Note: These timings may vary slightly depending on weather conditions and visibility

Eid ul-Fitr 2026 Moon Sighting City-Wise Timings In India

Here is a rough guide for the best times to look up in major cities:

Eid ul-Fitr 2026 Traditions and the Spirit of Giving

The celebrations on Saturday will kick off early with the Salat al-Eid (the special morning prayer). But before anyone sits down for a feast, there is a vital duty to perform: Zakat al-Fitr. This is a mandatory charitable contribution given before the prayer starts. The idea is simple but beautiful, ensuring that those who are less fortunate can also afford a good meal and new clothes to enjoy the festival.

ALSO READ- Eid AI Prompts 2026: 7+ Eid ul-Fitr Google Gemini Photo Editing Prompts To Create Beautiful Eid Photos Instantly

Keep reading Herzindagi for more such stories.

Image Courtesy: Freepik