Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, November 17 2010:
Muslims across the State celebrated Idul-Zuha today along with traditional fervour and gaiety.
Offering of special prayer for peace at mosques, exchange of greetings and sharing of sumptuous feasts with relatives and friends are other highlights of the celebration.
Considered to be one of the most sacred religious festivals, Idul-Zuha also known as Bakrid on account of sacrificing 'Bakra (goat)' at the occasion, is celebrated in commemoration of the great sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim, who was so devoted, faithful and obedient to God's will that he unhesitatingly agreed to sacrifice his only son Ismail at His behest.
It is said that it was to test him that Allah asked him to sacrifice his son on the altar at the mount of Mina near Mecca.
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Moved by his paternal feelings and yet determined to follow Allah's instructions, Ibrahim blindfolded himself before sacrificing his son and only removed the blindfold after performing the act.
When he opened his eyes, he found his son alive and smiling to his great joy.
The celebration of Idul-Zuha also coincides with the Haj pilgrimage in Mecca.
In the morning, men offered Namaz at the Masjid and womenfolk cooked various delicacies at home to share with relatives and friends.
On this day, married Muslim women come to visit their maternal home bringing sweets and other eatables to share and exchange pleasantries with their brothers, uncles and other family members.
Giving arms to the poor on the occasion of Idul-Zuha is also considered to bring good fortune.
At Yairipok Changamdabi, Idul-Zuha was celebrated with great fanfare along with mass participation by people of all communities.
Former Deputy Speaker Th Shyamkumar Singh was also present.
Celebrating Idul-Zuha, social activist Md Abdul Nasir invited around 500 people belonging to various communities like Meitei, tribal, etc for a community feasting at his Lilong Chaobok Mairenkhun residence.
MLA Bijoy Koijam was also reportedly present at the occasion.