Guwahati prays for BTAD, Gaza on Eid

GUWAHATI: Violence in the Middle East, and that closer home, made its presence felt in the city on Eid-ul-Fitr, with special prayers being offered for people living in strife-torn Gaza and BTAD. As the world watches the horrific events in Gaza unfold, the recurring violence in BTAD, too, elicited prayers.
"We prayed for people living in Gaza, who are battling violence.We prayed for peace, harmony and better days," said Anwar Hussein, Imam of the 400-year-old Bura Masjid in the city. On Tuesday, hundreds of people thronged the holy sites of the city to offer their prayers. The same was observed at Bura Masjid, the oldest mosque in the northeast.
Consecrated in 1665 by an unknown Mughal soldier, who originally hailed from Baghdad, the Bura Masjid is considered to be one of the oldest mosques in Assam. It is revered by both Muslims and non-Muslims.
"There were prayers for people living in BTAD and for their families. It was a call for peace and harmony in the state and in the country. We are proud of our country's diversity and we should maintain this unique aspect," he added.
Eid celebrations were held across the city, with shops and eateries offering special dishes. The festive fervour was palpable and people from all communities were seen soaking up the spirit of Eid.