Eid al-Fitr was celebrated across India on Saturday with prayers for peace, unity and prosperity, even as peaceful protests were held in several regions condemning the US-Israel attacks on Iran and calling for an end to the conflict in West Asia.
From the crowded lanes of Old Delhi to the iconic Nakhoda Masjid and major eidgahsin Jammu and Kashmir, lakhs of people gathered to offer namaz, embracing one another and sharing traditional delicacies after the end of Ramzan.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi greeted citizens, wishing that the festival would strengthen brotherhood and kindness. Chief ministers, including Omar Abdullah and Mamata Banerjee, also extended greetings and participated in celebrations.
In the national capital, large congregations assembled at Jama Masjid, Fatehpuri Masjid and other mosques, with worshippers offering prayers amid a heavy security presence in sensitive areas. Celebrations in parts of west Delhi remained subdued following recent communal tensions.
Also read: Battle will continue: Mamata targets SIR at Eid-Ul-Fitr gathering
In the Valley, the largest gathering was witnessed at the Hazratbal Shrine, while Eid prayers were not permitted at the historic Jama Masjid for the seventh consecutive year. Terming the move “unfortunate”, Abdullah questioned claims of normalcy.
Alongside celebrations, protests were reported in several states, including Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and parts of Kashmir. Demonstrators wore black armbands, raised slogans and held marches condemning the ongoing conflict, particularly the attacks on Iran.
In Lucknow, large congregations gathered at the Aishbagh Eidgah, where leaders across party lines extended greetings. Similar scenes were reported from Bihar, Odisha and southern states, including Hyderabad and Bengaluru, where markets witnessed brisk festive activity.
In Kolkata, the Red Road congregation drew large crowds and political attention ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections, with Banerjee addressing worshippers after prayers.
Despite scattered protests, authorities said Eid celebrations across the country remained largely peaceful, with security tightened in sensitive areas to prevent any untoward incidents.
Follow us
