On the occasion of Eid-al-Adha, several devotees gathered at the Jama Masjid, one of India’s largest mosques, to offer namaz despite strict coronavirus disease (Covid-19) protocols. Muslims around the world are celebrating Eid-al-Adha, or the ‘Feast of Sacrifice,’ from late Tuesday evening to Wednesday morning, and offering prayers at mosques in a staggered manner due to the viral disease outbreak.
In the midst of the pandemic, another major Islamic holiday, Eid-al-Adha, falls this year, limiting large crowds of devotees at prominent mosques such as Hajj.
Early morning footage showed a small group of people in the Jama Masjid mosque, who were under the protection of a heavy police security blanket that prevented crowding. To avoid another virus outbreak, the Shahi Imam of Masjid emphasised the importance of the community adhering to Covid-19 safety guidelines.
“In light of the third wave, we must adhere to Covid-19 guidelines for our own and our families’ safety. We had decided to limit the number of people who could offer namaz at Jama Masjid. Approximately 15-20 people prayed “According to Shahi Imam Abdul Ghafoor Shah Bukhari.
Prayers, large social gatherings, the slaughtering of livestock, and the distribution of meat to the poor are all common features of Eid al-Adha. This year’s holiday falls as many countries battle the delta variant, which was first discovered in India, prompting some to impose new restrictions or ask people to avoid congregating and follow safety protocols.
