Guwahati: In spite of the ongoing pandemic, devotees turned out in large numbers on Saturday morning to offer namaz at New Delhi's historic Jama Masjid on the occasion of Eid Al-Adha.
As the number of devotees was quite high, several measures were taken by the authorities to minimize the risk of transmission. For instance, the devotees were screened at the entrance.
Sanjay Bhatia, the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) said that the police has ensured strong arrangements. "In fact, we have ensured a safe environment in several big and small mosques on this occasion. namaz will be offered at 6:05 am," he informed. The devotees were also seen adhering to the norms such as the following of social distancing norms, wearing of masks, etc.
This year's gathering was a strict departure from previous years, when devotees numbering in the thousands would gather and offer namaz with great gusto, which would be a sight to behold.
Eid al-Adha or Bakrid, also known as "Sacrifice Feast" is marked by sacrificing an animal, usually a sheep or a goat to prove their devotion and love for Allah. Post the sacrifice, devotees distribute the offering to family, friends, neighbors. In this festival, the Muslim community feeds the poor and needy.
This year, the Eid al-Adha celebrations are a bit muted in view of the ongoing pandemic situation. Several states have issued guidelines to minimize the risk of transmission of the virus.