Mass prayers back on Eid after 2 years of Cov curbs

Ranchi: Muslims on Tuesday celebrated Eid-ul-Fitr with full fervour after a gap of two years due to the pandemic. Thousands of devotees thronged the Idgahs and the mosques to offer prayers and greet each other on the occasion. Governor Ramesh Bais and chief minister Hemant Soren also greeted the people on the occasion and wished for their prosperity.
Bais said, “I congratulate the people of the state on the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr. I pray that the festival brings joy in your life and also strengthens the spirit of unity and brotherhood.” The CM said, “I hope that people would be healthy, happy and prosperous.”
Moulana Qutubuddin of Edar E Sharia, Jharkhand, said that the festival was observed with social harmony across the state. “After a gap of two years, the devotees observed the festival with enthusiasm as the pandemic-related restrictions have been lifted. Many people working outside the state came home to enjoy the festival with family members.”
"Since all restrictions have been lifted, the turnout was large," said philanthropist Kashif Khan.
Dressed in new attires, revellers flocked to the 70 odd small and big mosques in Jamshedpur from early hours. In Ranchi, devotees offered prayers at around 70 Idgahs and mosques including those located at Doranda, Pahari Maidan, Harmu, Hindpidhi, Karbala Chowk, Manitola, Kantatoli and Tharpakna. After the prayers, people hugged each other and exchanged greetings. Several devotees said that they prayed for peace and progress of the nation.
The markets were abuzz with activities since the eve of the festival on Monday with milk booths, sevai shops, mutton and chicken shops witnessing rush of buyers. While addressing a gathering at Harmu Idgah, Moulana Asgar Misbahi said, “There are attempts by some people to spread social discord in the country. We have to reply to them by spreading harmony.” A fair was also organised at the Karbala Chowk where a large number of children gathered to enjoy the swings.
The district administration in both Ranchi and Jamshedpur deployed security forces at the mosques, idgahs and other sensitive places from early morning in Ranchi. Police patrolling was also intensified across the state capital. The Central Muharram Committee congratulated the people of the state for celebrating the festival in a peaceful atmosphere.