Patna: The 29th fast of the holy month of Ramzan was observed on Thursday, bringing the faithful closer to the end of the sacred period of fasting and prayers. With Friday marking the 30th Roza, Muslims across Patna are set to offer the Alvida Juma prayers at major Jama Masjids in the city.
Thousands of devotees are expected to gather at the mosques to offer prayers, seek blessings from Allah, and pray for peace and communal harmony. The sighting of the Eid moon is anticipated on Friday evening, which will usher in the festive ‘Chand Raat’, traditionally marked by a surge in shopping across markets.
Eid-ul-Fitr prayers will be offered on Saturday at various Eidgahs across the city, including the prominent grounds. Authorities have put in place elaborate security arrangements to ensure peaceful celebrations.
On Thursday night, markets across Patna witnessed heavy footfall as people rushed to complete their Eid shopping. Busy commercial areas such as Sabzibagh, Patna Market, Rajabazar, Phulwari Sharif, Danapur, Alamganj, Sultanganj, Khajekalan and Sadar Gali remained crowded till late at night.
Shops selling sevai, lachha, attar, caps, decorative items, nan, bakarkhani, clothing, kurta-pyjamas and other festive essentials saw large numbers of customers. Due to the heavy crowd, authorities temporarily restricted the entry of vehicles into Sadar Gali to manage the rush.
Meanwhile, Jamaat-e-Islami Hind Bihar president Maulana Rizwan Ahmad Islahi urged people to offer Fitra and Zakat before the Eid prayers so that the underprivileged can also participate in the celebrations.
He said that after observing the obligatory fasts and performing prayers throughout Ramzan, Muslims will gather at Eidgahs on Eid day to offer two rakats of Eid prayer and thank Allah for His blessings. He added that Allah rewards His devotees for their devotion and worship during the holy month.
