The ruling on women visiting graves

A: `Eid-ul-Fitr (the Festival of Breaking the Fast), Eid-ul-Adha (the Festival of the Sacrifice), Days of Tashriq (11th, 12th and 13th of Dhul-Hijjah), and Fridays are the Islamic festivals. Days other than these are not considered Shar`y (Islamically lawful). It is Bid`ah (innovation in religion) for men and women to visit graves during festivals. It is forbidden for women to visit graves whether during festivals or not. Moreover, it is a Bid`ah (innovation in religion) to distribute food and fruit at the graves. On the other hand, it is not permissible for the reciters to recite the Qur'an or to take wages in return for their recitation. The deceased is not availed of these acts, as they are detestable and impermissible acts.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.