STATE TIMES NEWS
JAMMU: Eid-ul-Fitr was celebrated with religious fervour and traditional gaiety across the Jammu region on Monday amid tight security arrangements, with a large number of people gathering at different eidgahs to pray for peace.
Eid-ul-Fitr marks the end of the period of fasting, prayer and charity during the holy month of Ramzan, culminating in an occasion for festivities, joy and togetherness.
On the eve of Eid, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah greeted the people on the Union Territory.
On Monday, the largest congregation was held at the eidgah on Residency Road in Jammu, followed by the Mecca Masjid and the Jama Masjid Khatikan Talab, where hundreds of Muslims offered Eid prayers in the morning.
Muftis and religious scholars spoke about the significace of the day, explaining the philosophy behind the customary sacrifice.
“I want to extend my wishes to everyone on Eid, the festival of happiness. There’s a tradition in Jammu where people come together during religious functions,” Mufti Anayat Tullah, head priest of the Jama Masjid in Jammu, said.
Emphasising the love and brotherhood among various communities in Jammu, he said, “I hope this bond of love continues. I want to appeal to everyone — do not fall into the trap of those spreading hate.”
Eid-ul-Fitr was also celebrated across Kashmir, with the largest congregation of devotees assembled at the Hazratbal Shrine on the banks of the Dal lake.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and National Conference president Farooq Abdullah were among the notable persons to offer prayers at Hazratbal.
Large congregation of Eid prayers were reported from all districts of the valley.
Dressed in their best, Muslims of all ages and genders assembled in eidgahs, mosque and shrines to offer prayers.
The day is marked by Muslims visiting their relatives and friends to exchange gifts and greetings to mark the culmination of the fasting month of Ramzan.