Eid-ul-Fitr was celebrated with immense joy and devotion across Uttar Pradesh, as mosques and Eidgahs overflowed with worshippers who came together to offer prayers and exchange heartfelt greetings.
The air was filled with festivity, with streets bustling with people dressed in new clothes, children gleefully collecting Eidi from elders, and the aroma of traditional delicacies wafting from homes. Security arrangements were tightened across the state, with drone cameras deployed for surveillance to ensure a peaceful celebration.
Director General of Police (DGP) Prashant Kumar stated, “The Eid-ul-Fitr prayers were conducted peacefully across all districts of Uttar Pradesh in accordance with the directives issued by the administration. People followed the guidance of religious leaders and the government’s instructions by not offering prayers in public places.” In Lucknow, the historic Bara Imambara and Aishbagh Eidgah witnessed a massive turnout as thousands gathered to offer Eid prayers. Men in crisp white kurtas and embroidered caps, alongside children in vibrant new outfits, stood shoulder to shoulder in devotion. Several political leaders, including Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak, former Deputy CM Dinesh Sharma, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, and Uttar Pradesh Congress President Ajay Rai, extended their greetings to the Muslim community. “Eid is not just a festival, but a message of love, peace, and unity. Seeing people from all backgrounds come together in celebration is truly heart warming,” said Brajesh Pathak.
In Amethi, the fervour of Eid was unmistakable as devotees bowed in prayer, seeking divine blessings for peace, harmony and prosperity. The district administration had made elaborate security arrangements, ensuring a smooth and safe celebration. Following the prayers, the joyous tradition of exchanging Eid greetings began. Children, clad in shimmering salwar suits and intricately designed sherwanis, ran around with laughter, collecting Eidi from elders. In various mosques across the region, including Nuri Masjid, Amina Masjid, Masjid Abu Bakr, and Masjid Sheikh Sahab, people from different faiths joined in the celebrations, extending their best wishes.
In Balrampur, the Eidgah at Bibi Bandi Sahiba was filled with worshippers who embraced each other with warmth after prayers. Markets, which had been bustling the previous night with last-minute shoppers buying bangles, perfumes, and traditional sweets, continued to be abuzz as people visited friends and relatives.
The spiritual heart of Uttar Pradesh, Ayodhya, also witnessed grand Eid celebrations under tight security. The city’s Eidgah saw thousands of devotees gathered in prayer. The presence of Samajwadi Party MP Awadhesh Prasad, who personally extended Eid greetings to the worshippers, added to the occasion. “Eid is a celebration of harmony. Today, as people of all communities exchange greetings, we see a reaffirmation of our commitment to peace and coexistence,” he remarked.
In Bareilly, one of the most prominent Eid gatherings took place at Bakarganj Eidgah, where thousands bowed in unison, praying for a brighter future. Across the district, prayers were held at 1,529 locations, including 170 Eidgahs and 1,359 mosques. Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations across UP echoed the spirit of unity, compassion, and joy. As the day progressed, families and friends gathered for elaborate feasts featuring aromatic biryanis, succulent kebabs, and a variety of sweet treats like sheer khurma and phirni.
“Eid is incomplete without sharing our happiness with others. The real joy is in inviting friends, feeding the hungry, and ensuring that everyone feels included in our celebrations,” said Mohammad Imran, a resident of Lucknow.
