The concept of Eid salami or Gift of Eid through money is not a new tradition at all. In different Arab countries and countries with an Islamic empire in their history, like Turkey, Iran, and others, they also have this culture of Eidi or Eid Salami.

 For those who don’t know about Eidi, it is a token of love, appreciation, and care for the young given by the elders. It's mostly given in the form of cash, sometimes in sweets and candies as well. This is kind of like the Red Envelope of the Chinese culture, where Kids must act and behave decently, appreciate their roots, and connect with their ancestors to earn the “prestige” to gain “Ang Pau” or Red Envelope filled with cash.

From the beginning of this culture, not just the Eidi or Ang Pau, it really represented the fact that money can’t be bought, it must be earned in ways. It might be hard work or affection. Kids are expected to behave in a mannerly way and connect back to their roots.  In some countries like Turkiye, it’s still practiced in such a manner that kids are expected to perform, maybe dance or sing, to entertain the elderly, to earn their respect, and Eidi. In the Subcontinent, it got its name “Salami” through the culture that Kids are expected to “Salam” or convey salutation in the most intense manner.

But the reality in the current timeframe is not as respectful as it was. Although thanks to the advancement of technology, MFS like Bkash and Nagad are actually capitalizing on the emotions and tradition. It's seen commonly, Kids take screenshots of there transaction and brag about it. Sometimes, it doesn’t even require asking Eidi with politeness and gratefulness. You will text someone, “Send me my Eidi,” and Bam! It's here. The Whole point of Eid is losing its inner context.

It's not about the emotions and the affections anymore; it's about the money and the numbers. Don’t get me wrong, there is nothing wrong with taking your Eidi through MFS, but trust me, that Polite “Assalamualaikum Dadu, Eid Mubarak.” And emotions of loving your grandpa really make that Eidi a thousand times special. 

So, let us know our roots. Appreciate our elderly and connect ourselves with the tradition. By this, we can truly enjoy and assess the value of the most cherished tradition of the Eid by every kid!

Eid Mubarak Everyone!