Srinagar, July 13 : With large gatherings being prohibited and social distancing rules in place to prevent deadly covid-19, people here in Muslim- majority Kashmir region will again have a low key on Eid al-Adha this time.
Eid Al Adha is celebrated with Eid prayers, Qurbani and family gatherings and a feast. The Eid is to fall on July 21.
But as large gatherings are prohibited and social distancing rules are still in place, Eid celebrations will look very different this time.
Ajaz Ahmad lives in HMT Srinagar with wife Afroza and their young daughter, Alisa. Usually, they spend Eid day with both of their families.
“Normally on Eid day, we go to the mosque for Eid prayers. Then we sacrifice animals and spend our time by visiting our parents, and seeing other relatives before a big get-together at home. But on this EID, the family-of-three will stay at home and make it about Alisa,” he said.
Animal sacrifice is the ritual killing of an animal in Islam. Every year on the occasion of Eid al-Adha, , an estimated three lakh fifty thousand animals are used for the sacrificial ritual (Qurbani) in Kashmir, which approximately amounts to a whopping sum of Rs 3. 50 crore.
Usually the Eid al Fitr celebrations are held in various gardens here in Srinagar, but due to coronavirus, these celebrations won’t be enjoyed this time.
On Eid day at famous Mugal Gardens and on the banks of Dal lake, the events attracts several people where a funfair is held alongside food vendors, family games, activities and more.
Shabir Ahmad of Bemina said: “Usually I go to Pratap park with my children to celebrate the Eid. This year I have told my kids that we won’t be able to celebrate like the way we used to. I don’t like it but we should listen to Government instructions to save lives,” (KINS)
