Kharge, Rahul Gandhi extend Eid al-Adha greetings, call for unity
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Congress National President Mallikarjun Kharge and Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Thursday, 28 May extended Eid al-Adha greetings to citizens across India, calling for brotherhood, peace, and communal harmony on one of Islam's most significant festivals.
What the Leaders Said
Kharge, posting on X, described Eid al-Adha as a festival that reflects 'the timeless virtues of sacrifice, faith, compassion and forgiveness.' He urged citizens to 'deepen the spirit of brotherhood, strengthen the bonds of unity, and work together towards a society rooted in peace, harmony and shared progress,' adding, 'Wishing everyone a joyous and blessed Eid Mubarak!'
Rahul Gandhi also shared greetings on X, writing, 'Wishing you and your family a Bakrid filled with joy. May your home be filled with warmth and togetherness today. Eid Mubarak.'
Congress Wayanad MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra likewise posted on X: 'Eid al-Adha Mubarak to all! May this joyous occasion bring peace, love and prosperity to every home. Wishing everyone happiness, blessings, and the spirit of unity and brotherhood.'
Celebrations Across the Country
Large congregations of worshippers gathered at mosques and Eidgahs from early morning across India, with devotees dressed in traditional attire offering special prayers to mark Bakrid. Families came together for festive meals, acts of charity, and the distribution of food to the underprivileged — practices central to the spirit of the occasion.
Worshippers described the festival as carrying a message of 'brotherhood, communal harmony, and peaceful coexistence,' while also emphasising compassion, sacrifice, and giving.
Security and Public Order
Authorities in several cities made elaborate security arrangements to ensure celebrations passed off peacefully. Law enforcement maintained a visible presence at major gathering points to safeguard public order during the festivities.
Significance of Eid al-Adha
Eid al-Adha, widely observed as Bakrid in India, commemorates the devotion of Prophet Ibrahim, who was willing to sacrifice his son in obedience to God's command. The occasion symbolises unwavering faith, gratitude, compassion, and charity, and is among the most widely observed Islamic festivals globally. This year's celebrations unfolded with notable fervour, with congregations reported at major religious sites across the country.