Early Times Report
JAMMU, Mar 21: Amid tight security arrangements, Eid al-Fitr was celebrated with religious fervour and traditional gaiety across the Jammu region on Monday, with a large number of Muslims gathering at various eidgahs and mosques to offer prayers for peace and an end to the conflicts in the Middle East. Eid al-Fitr marks the end of the holy month of Ramzan, which is observed through fasting, prayers and charity, and ushers in a festival of joy, togetherness and thanksgiving. Hundreds of devotees offered prayers at different mosques and eidgahs across the region, with the main congregation held at the eidgah on Residency Road in Jammu, followed by gatherings at the Mecca Masjid in Bathindi and the Jamia Masjid in Talab Khatikan.
Religious scholars highlighted the significance of the day, emphasising compassion, sacrifice and gratitude, and prayed for peace across the world, particularly in the conflict-hit regions of West Asia.City & Local Guides
The Shahi Imam of Jammu, Mufti Inayatullah Qasmi, said Eid is a day of joy and gratitude after a month of fasting and worship.
"We pray that Allah keeps everyone happy, prosperous and in good health, and that humanity lives in peace and harmony," Qasmi told reporters here.
Referring to global conflicts, the Shahi Imam said war is not a solution and urged nations to resolve differences through dialogue.
"We appeal to all countries to sit together and end this loss of human lives," he said. National Conference provincial president Rattan Lal Gupta, who visited the eidgah on Residency Road with party leaders to greet people, said Jammu has a long tradition of communal harmony. "Irrespective of religion, people in Jammu celebrate each other's festivals together. Today also, people of all communities have gathered to share the joy of Eid," Gupta said. Expressing hope that prayers offered on Eid would bring peace, prosperity and employment opportunities to the region, he said, "We also pray for an end to conflicts around the world." |
