India celebrates Eid al-Adha

Eid al-Adha, commonly known as Bakri Eid in India, is the second of the two holidays, coming months after Eid al-Fitr. The three-day festival starts on the tenth day of the Islamic month of Dhu al-Hijjah. It also marks the end of the annual Hajj (Pilgrimage) to Mecca.

According to Islam, Eid al-Adha started off to commemorate the willingness of Ibrahim to sacrifice his young son in obedience to God. Pleased with his devotion, the Lord spared him the misery and was told the sacrifice was already granted.

The traditional ritual consists of the ritual of sacrificing animals like goat,  buffalo,  cow or camel.

The meat is then divided into three parts. One third of it is retained by the family. The second of the third is given to friends and relatives. The poor and needy, feasts on the remaining third.

Like all religious gatherings and celebrations Bakri Eid too is not devoid of prayers. Men are required to follow certain norms and perform prayers, while women are encouraged as well. Any men failing to perform his prayer without a valid excuse is considered to be a sinner.

On the auspicious day, the President of India, Pranab Mukherjee, wished the citizens a very happy Eid.

Muklherjee wrote on the official Twitter page of the President: “Greetings & good wishes to all my Muslim brothers and sisters in India and abroad on Idu’l Zuha #PresidentMukherjee.”

"Calling an end to suffering and need, the President wrote: “Let this festival be an occasion to share our happiness & resources with those lesser privileged, suffering & in need #PresidentMukherjee," he said.

“May Idu’l Zuha bring all the communities & regions of India together in a celebration of our composite civilization #PresidentMukherjee," he said.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee too wished the citizens on the occasion.

Bollywood superstar, Shah Rukh Khan wrote: “Wishing everyone a happy Eid Al Adha. May all have Allah’s mercy and blessings, health and happiness.”