New Delhi: Mosques and several religious sites across the country on Monday were thronged by the devout who gathered to offer Namaz on the auspicious occasion of the holy ''Eid Al-Adha' festival.
At the historic Jama Masjid in Delhi hundreds of worshippers assembled for morning prayers.
Maksud Ahmed, a devotee, reflecting on the significance of the festival, stated that it signified sacrificing vices.
"This day reminds us of sacrifice. Sacrifice is not just about the sacrifice of an animal; in essence, it means sacrificing our vices for our own sake. On this day, one should sacrifice all the bad qualities within oneself and bring forth one's goodness," Ahmed said.
"Today, all Muslims who have performed the prayer will remember the sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim by sacrificing an animal. This ends our vices and increases our virtues," he added.
Another devotee, Abdul Rehman, expressed his joy at participating in the prayer at Jama Masjid for the first time.
Eid Al-Adha is a holy occasion and is celebrated on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, the 12th month of the Islamic or lunar calendar. It marks the end of the annual Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia.
The festival is an occasion of joy and peace, where people celebrate with their families, let go of past grudges and make meaningful connections with one another.
It is celebrated as a commemoration of Prophet Abraham's willingness to sacrifice everything for God. (with Agency inputs)
