Eid celebrated with fervour in Rajasthan

Eid-ul-Fitr, which marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, was celebrated with fervour in Rajasthan on Thursday.

Muslims performed Namaaz or prayers across the state. Thousands gathered here for the prayers held at Idgah on the outskirts of the city.

"About 4-5 lakh people offered Namaaz at Idgah today. We offered prayers for peace and prosperity," Khalid Usmani, President of All India Darul Qazat (AIDQ), told IANS here.

AIDQ claims to represent Qazis - which means judges of the Sharia court who also exercise some extra-judicial functions -- across the country.

Usmani said he also took this opportunity to ask Muslims to stand up against terrorism.

Muslims in the state paid Zakatul Fitrah -- alms given at the end of Ramadan -- of at least Rs 40 per member.

People dressed in new clothes were seen greeting each other and distributing sweets after performing Namaaz in the morning.

Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje and former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot greeted Muslims on the day.

--IANS

as/kb/bg