Festivals are a heartfelt addition to human civilization. They can be religious, ethnic, or cultural in nature. These celebrations are deeply intertwined with people’s emotions, joy, and communal harmony.
Particularly during religious festivals, people immerse themselves in happiness. Individuals of different faiths greet and entertain one another. Wearing new clothes and visiting new places are common practices during these celebrations.
In modern times, festivals have become a hub of commercial activities. Numerous businesses thrive solely due to festivals, and there is also an international dimension to festival-related trade.
It is often observed that financially capable individuals purchase new homes or cars during festivals, while some embark on luxurious vacations. Many affluent individuals engage in extravagant spending in the name of celebration.
The essence of a festival, however, lies in the fact that—regardless of one’s financial status—the intensity of joy remains nearly the same for everyone. Some find happiness in buying a car, while others in purchasing a simple new garment. Everyone has the right to celebrate, and they should do so according to their financial capacity.
However, those with limited income must plan their expenses carefully. Governments, autonomous organizations, and private institutions often provide festival allowances to encourage celebrations.
Additionally, employers sometimes offer salary advances to help workers and employees manage festival expenses. With this money, people engage in shopping, purchase festive food, and support their families.
Since not everyone earns the same amount, it is wise for each person to plan their spending based on their financial capability, ensuring that wasteful expenditure is avoided.
A well-known English proverb states, “Cut your coat according to your cloth”, which means one should spend within their means.
It is often noticed that some individuals with limited income spend their entire earnings or bonuses impulsively during festivals. This can be considered somewhat unwise.
While spending for joy and essential needs is necessary, it should not lead to financial hardship afterward. Those with fixed incomes, in particular, should manage their finances wisely.
If a person spends all their money on the festival and later struggles to meet basic needs, even resorting to debt, the happiness of the celebration quickly fades.
Moreover, it is crucial to ensure that necessary expenses are prioritized over unnecessary spending. For example, in Islam, Zakat is an obligatory act during Eid-ul-Fitr.
If someone who is required to pay Zakat neglects this duty and instead spends lavishly on luxury trips, it diminishes the true essence of the Eid celebration.
Therefore, it is essential for every individual to be mindful of how meaningful their expenditures are and to ensure that their spending aligns with their financial reality.
