Bonhomie, prayers mark Eid celebrations

The spirit of unity, devotion and brotherhood marked the Eid al-Adha (Bakrid) celebrations across the national capital on Saturday. People from diverse backgrounds gathered in large numbers to offer namaz at mosques and prayer grounds.

Advertisement

Dressed in traditional attire and prayer caps, men, women and children thronged prominent mosques such as Jama Masjid, Fatehpuri Masjid and those in Seelampur, Okhla and Nizamuddin. From toddlers held in arms to elderly guided by walking sticks, the sense of shared faith and festivity was palpable as warm Eid greetings echoed following the special morning prayers.

Eid-ul-Adha, known as the “Festival of Sacrifice”, commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s unwavering devotion and willingness to sacrifice in obedience to God. Worshippers arrived well before dawn, many carrying prayer mats and accompanied by family members, ready to participate in the solemn prayers and community bonding.

In view of the festival, the Delhi Police had put in place elaborate security arrangements across the city to ensure peace and public safety. Sensitive areas witnessed heavy deployment of police personnel, paramilitary forces and the Rapid Action Force (RAF). According to officials, several checkpoints were set up and electronic surveillance was intensified to detect any suspicious activity.

North Delhi, in particular, saw tight security with layered arrangements under the supervision of Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Raja Banthia. Peaceful prayers were conducted at 193 mosques in the region, including Inderlok mosque, where police presence ensured a smooth celebration.

“Considering the festival of Eid, full-layered security arrangements have been made. There are about 193 mosques where staff have been deployed. Social media is also being closely monitored to curb the spread of misinformation or rumours,” DCP Banthia stated.

Several political leaders also participated in the celebrations. Senior BJP leader Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi offered prayers at Imamia Hall Shia Jama Masjid on Panchkuian Road, expressing wishes of peace and prosperity.

BJP spokesperson Yaser Jilani extended greetings to the nation, stating, “I want to wish 140 crore Indians on the occasion of Eid-ul-Azha. I urge all my Muslim brothers in Delhi to refrain from sacrificing animals banned under government guidelines. Sacrificing banned animals is a crime. This is a festival to sacrifice ego, lies and the devil within.”

Despite the sweltering heat, the mood across the city remained festive and harmonious, reaffirming Delhi’s vibrant multicultural spirit.