SHILLONG, July 29 � Meghalaya Governor KK Paul and Chief Minister Mukul Sangma today extended their greetings to the people on the occasion of Idd-ul-Fitr.
In his message the Governor said: �On the occasion of Idd-ul-Fitr, I convey my warm greetings and good wishes to the people of Meghalaya, especially the Muslim brethren. I hope that this joyous festival, which marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, will promote universally cherished values of mutual respect, brotherhood and compassion in our society.�
Extending his greetings, the Chief Minister in his message said that the end of the holy month of Ramadan is a �joyous time as families and friends join together in celebration.�
He said that �peace, forgiveness and unity are the heart of Idd� and urged the people to resolve to strengthen these bonds of community spirit.
During the day, together with the rest of the world, Muslims in Meghalaya celebrated Idd-ul-Fitr by offering prayers at mosques and visiting families and friends at their homes.
In the Madina Masjid here, known as the glass mosque, close to 10,000 Muslims faithful offered their prayers at the Eidgah. Namaz-e-Idd was also offered in different mosques spread across the State.
The festival marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan in which Muslim faithful undergo fasting from dawn to dusk. The observation of Ramadan or Ramazan marks the anniversary of the Quran being revealed to Prophet Mohammed. On Idd-ul-Fitr Muslims congregate across mosques where prayers are offered.
It is also an occasion where people meet each other�s families and friends and lavish feast are served. Muslims also give out Eidis or gifts to children during the occasion. Another important aspect of Idd celebrations is giving Zakat or charity to the poor and needy.
