KUWAIT: “Eidiya,” the tradition act of joy to children during Eid, holds a timeless memory in their minds. However, time has ushered in changes, modernizing its giving. Now, the act of giving Eidiya has evolved into a creative meme cards, decorative bags, and colorful boxes. Kuwait Times spoke with citizens and residents reacting to the “Modernized Eidiya”. While shopping for Eidiya cards, Samira Al-Hajj said that the markets and online stores have opened the way for innovations that make Eidiya a distinctive idea that is distinct from its predecessors.

She remarked “The current generation is attuned to trends and values novelty. It’s crucial to impress them with innovative Eidiya rather than adhering to the old, traditional method of simply giving money.” She revealed that the prices of Eidiya cards and boxes vary according to the quality they are made of and the items’ creativity, saying “Card prices range between KD1 and KD5 - depending on the size of the card or the box.

These prices differ if the purchase is by piece or in wholesale, and in some stores, they mostly sell in dozens.” In contrast to Al-Hajj’s view, Muhammad Yahya refused to enhance the significance of Eidiya in the eyes of children through modern innovations. According to him, children are inherently innocent and require nothing beyond the primary essence of Eidiya. He added “The most crucial aspect for them is to receive Eidiya directly, as it represents their opportunity to exert autonomy and purchase what they desire without interference from adults.”

For her part, Huda Azzam emphasizes that Eidiya isn’t exclusively for children, noting that many adults also receive it from their husbands and parents. She pointed out “The act of giving Eidiya in a unique way brings joy and satisfaction. It adds a delightful touch to the tradition. It is not just about the monetary exchange; it is about infusing creativity and fun into the gesture.”

Meanwhile, Khaled Al-Fadhli completely rejects the new trend that has become associated with offering Eidiya, saying “Capitalism and trade make social customs lose their meaning and distort its spontaneity, which we have tasted and known as children. Therefore, I think that I and everyone who is accustomed to the traditional form of Eidiya reject the use of these meaningless trendy ways.”

He added “I’m someone who doesn’t advocate for embracing every new trend, preferring instead, traditional experiences for my children. I believe in crafting memories that are rooted in simplicity. These memories, steeped in tradition, remain enduringly linked to moments of joy and celebration, regardless of how much time passes or how old my children grow.”

For her part, Um Abdullah welcomes the use of Eidiya’s new ways spread in the markets, such as cards and boxes, and finds them cheerful, affirming that they will become a beautiful memory that her two children will keep for years. She indicated that the new trendy Eidiya is not widespread, explaining “Such trends add an extra financial burden. I think middle and upper classes are the ones who can afford the cost of cards and boxes that accompany the amount of the Eidiya, which is now - not less than KD 20.”