Vijayawada marks Bakrid with prayers, festive spirit
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Vijayawada: The city witnessed vibrant celebrations on the occasion of Eid-Al-Adha, also known as Bakrid, as thousands of Muslims gathered at major Eidgahs to offer prayers and participate in rituals with devotion and joy.
Large congregations were seen at key prayer locations including the Indira Gandhi Municipal Corporation (IGMC) Stadium, Gymkhana Grounds, and Eidgahs in the old city. At the IGMC Stadium and Yanamalakuduru Eidgah alone, over 3,000 worshippers offered Namaz-e-Eid, marking the spirit of sacrifice and unity.
Imams led the special prayers and delivered sermons explaining the significance of Eid-Al-Adha. "Bakrid is a festival that reminds us of the spirit of sacrifice and submission to the will of Allah.
One must be willing to let go of worldly attachments and walk the spiritual path," they said. Special duas (prayers) were offered for peace, prosperity, and the well-being of the people of Andhra Pradesh and the nation.
After prayers, Muslims embraced each other, exchanged greetings of "Eid Mubarak," and proceeded to perform the ritual of animal sacrifice, a key tradition of the festival. Families sacrificed goats and sheep as a symbol of devotion, sharing the meat with relatives, friends, and the poor.
Voluntary organizations also stepped in to support underprivileged worshippers by distributing essentials such as rice, dal, and ghee after the prayers.
Chief minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, his deputy Pawan Kalyan, HRD minister Nara Lokesh and opposition leader YS Jagan Mohan Reddy extended their heartfelt Bakrid greetings to the Muslim community, wishing for harmony and inclusive progress.
The city police made elaborate security arrangements, particularly in the old city and One Town areas, ensuring peaceful and smooth celebrations by deploying additional forces.
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