City Muslims to keep Eid celebrations low-key

Abdul Waheed, a Mira Road resident, would usually buy new clothes on the occasion of Eid. This year, Waheed will direct the money towards relief for those affected in the Assam violence. Mugdha Variyar reports.

Abdul Waheed, a Mira Road resident, would usually buy new clothes on the occasion of Eid. This year, Waheed will direct the money towards relief for those affected in the Assam violence.

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In view of the violence in Assam and the recent incident at Azad Maidan, many families plan to keep their Eid celebrations on Monday low-key. The festivities mark the end of 30 days of fasting during Ramzan.

"It is sad to see so many Muslims getting affected in Assam. The recent violence in the city perpetrated by youths from the community has worsened matters" said Waheed, an electronic engineer who made a contribution towards a relief fund set up by a local organisation.

"While we have not asked people to cut down on their celebrations, we are sure many might take the step owing to the current situation in the community," said Maulana Ahmed Khan Daryabadi, general secretary of the All India Ulema Council.

Every year, Mohammed Saeed, 27, a doctor based in Worli, would attend a house party at a friend's place on Eid. But this year, he won't party on Eid. "I will keep celebrations to a minimum this year as I am not in a mood to party," said Saeed.

"To celebrate, one should be in the right state of mind. But, the recent incidents of communal disharmony have emotionally disturbed us," said A Khaliq, a doctor based in Mira Road, who has contributed towards the Assam relief fund.

City-based Muslim organisations such as Jamaat-e-Islami Hind (JIH) have received several donations from those who offer zakat and fitr (charity) during Ramzan.

"We have received several donations throughout the month. They have been more on humanitarian grounds than for religious reasons," said Afzal Baig, city organiser, JIH.