Festive fervour grips Delhi on Eid-ul-Fitr

Dressed in festive finery, Muslims in the city on Friday thronged the historic 17th century Jama Masjid and other Eidgahs to offer congregational prayers on Eid-ul-Fitr, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan.

The Jama Masjid, built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in 1656, was the centrepiece of celebrations in Delhi. Prayers were also offered at Fatehpuri Masjid and Hazrat Nizamuddin, as thousands of Muslims hugged and greeted each other with the traditional greeting of "Eid Mubarak".

Once the prayers are offered, it's time to meet friends and family to exchange gifts and, more importantly, to feast.

"I will be visiting a couple of friends in the neighbourhood who have prepared some traditional delicacies. We will all have a meal together," said Zoya Khanam, a resident of Kucha Rahman in the walled city.

The sumptuous platter including "sevaiyan" (vermicelli pudding), "phirni" (rice pudding), biryani and mutton, chicken and lamb dishes are prepared at home as well as in restaurants on the occasion.

The exquisite dishes could satiate hunger more easily than the taste buds.

Markets in the walled city, especially bakeries, eateries, apparel and accessories shops did brisk business as huge crowds turned up and shopped for gifts, clothes and food items.

Towards evening, a lit up Jama Masjid in the walled city will add to the glimmer and exuberance surrounding the festival.

Delhi Police have made elaborate security arrangements, including diverting traffic at various places, particularly near mosques.

Meanwhile, social networking sites too were abuzz with activity since Thursday evening as people wished one another through messages, posts and e-cards.