West Bengal celebrates Eid-ul-Zuha

Thousands of people had gathered early in the morning on Indira Gandhi Sarani (formerly Red Road) in Central Kolkata and offered special prayers, which were organised by the Khilaphat Committee, on the occasion of Eid-ul-Zuha (Bakr-Id).

The main function was held at the Nakhoda Masjid here where a large number of people gathered since morning to offer prayers.

People had gathered for namaz in the morning at Eidgahs, masjids and other open spaces across the city and after the prayers, they embraced each other, exchanging greetings.

Special prayers were organised on the occasion at various mosques across the state where people offered Namaz.

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee greeted the people on the occasion of Eid ul Zuha.
“Greetings to all our brothers and sisters on this auspicious occasion,” Ms Banerjee posted on her social networking page.

All the government offices, banks, business houses and educational institutions were closed for the day as holiday.

Fairs and cultural programmes were organised in different pockets of the city where children donning traditional attires were seen revelling in festive spirit.

Mughlai cuisine, including varieties of biryanis, fresh fruits and home-made desserts were seen on every platter.

The festival is an all-inclusive affair in Kolkata with members of other religions also taking part.

Meanwhile, heavy security arrangements were made across the city and all districts of the state to prevent any breach of peace.

According to police, there was no report of any untoward incident from anywhere in the state in connection with today's festivity as the state administration had left no stone unturned to ensure peaceful observance of the day by deploying adequate number of security forces in all sensitive areas.

Eid-ul-Zuha, also known as Bakrid, is celebrated worldwide to commemorate the willingness of Ibrahim to sacrifice his son Ismael as an act of obedience to God.
It is celebrated approximately 70 days after the end of the month of Ramadan, which is celebrated as Eid-ul-Fitr.

The festival comes a day after pilgrims conducting Haj, the annual pilgrimage to Mecca in Saudi Arabia, descend from Mount Arafat.

Bakri Id (Bakri Eid) or or Eid ul Adha or Id ul Zuha - the 'Festival of Sacrifice' - is one of the most celebrated festivals of Islam.

Bakri Id is related to the legend of Prophet Ibrahim who stood the test of God's faith when asked by God to sacrifice his son Bakri Eid derives its name from the word 'Bakri' or 'Bakhr' meaning goat, and 'Id' meaning festival.

Celebrated in the Islamic month of Dhu'l Hijja, Muslims sacrifice a goat, sheep, camel, or any four legged animal to celebrate their strong faith in Allah.