Eid al-Adha celebrated across Chhattisgarh

Eid al-Adha, also called the festival of sacrifice, was celebrated by the Muslim community on Monday with religious fervour across Chhattisgarh.

The day began with Muslims, attired in their best, offering prayers at Eidgah and mosques in Raipur and other districts of the state.

A large number of people belonging to the community congregated at 51 mosques and the Eidgahin the capital and offered special prayers and later greeted each other, Raipurs Shahar Qazi Maulana Mohammad Ali Farooqui told PTI.

Amid elaborate arrangements by police and civic bodies for smooth conduct of Eid prayers, a major congregation was held at Eidgah Bhata maidan here.

Eid al-Adha, also known as Bakrid or Id-ul-Zuha, marks Prophet Abraham's sacrifice of a lamb after God spared his son, Prophet Ismail.

"Bakrid symbolises sacrifice and absolute devotion to God. It is the festival of sacrificing ones all while walking on a noble path so that peace and brotherhood can be maintained," Farooqui added.

Meanwhile, Governor Anusuiya Uikey and Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel extended their greetings to Muslims on the occasion.

"Warm wishes to all Muslim brothers and sisters on Id-ul-Zuha. The festival teaches us lesson of devotion and sacrifice.

"May the spirit of Eid bring joy and prosperity in lives of people of the state," the Governor said in a statement.

In his message, the Chief Minister said Eid al-Adha symbolises faith, sacrifice and love for the Almighty.

"This festival gives the message of harmony, unity, peace and fraternity, Baghel added.