PNS | VIJAYAWADA
All is set for Bakrid (Eid-ul-Adha) celebrations across Andhra Pradesh on Thursday on a grand note. However, the current prices of rams, sheep and goats are a big disappointment to the people who celebrate the festival. This year, the prices are on the higher side putting an extra financial burden on the people who give Qurbani.
Meanwhile, Muslim Joint Action convener Shaik Muneer Ahmed said that Bakrid Namaz would be performed at 7.30 am in Indira Gandhi Municipal Stadium at Vijayawada following a Islamic discourse and dua. He said that similarly, Bakrid Namaz would be held in Eidgahs and mosques in all 26 districts of AP State from 7 am to 10 am according to their conveniences and the local Eidgah committees and minority leaders have made all arrangements. He stated that local MLAs, MPs and MLCs will also join the Bakrid prayers in Vijayawada, Guntur, Machilipatnam and other cities.
Sheep traders from various places are selling the livestock in Vijayawada, Guntur, Eluru, Rajahmundry, Visakahapatnam and at all important centres. In Vijayawada, one-town is flooded with sheep traders and purchasers, but people cry foul about the high prices. Sources say: “A sheep yielding around 12 kg meat is sold for Rs 15,000 to Rs 18,000 in the market. Usually, people purchase a sheep weighing between 11 kg and 14 kg for Qurbani. The prices increased due to hiked transportation charges and fodder costs.”
However, rich families are purchasing big rams priced between Rs 20,000 and Rs 50,000 each which are specially breaded for the occasion for at least two years by feeding a special diet that includes dry fruits in the supervision of veterinary doctors. Interestingly, online sales of sheep, rams and goats picked up this year. The sellers are posting the photos of animals with all details including weight, rate, variety and location address, said trader Sk Azharuddin.
CM’s wishes
Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy extended his warm greetings and best wishes to the people of Andhra Pradesh on the eve of Eid-ul-Zuha or Eid-al-Adha or Bakrid.
Taking to Twitter, the Chief Minister said Muslims celebrated this festival in remembrance of the sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim. He said Bakrid symbolised the spirit of sacrifice, manifested by unshakeable faith and firm commitment.
He also said Muslims celebrated the Bakrid with great devotion and reverence. Jagan prayed to Allah to continue showering His blessings on the people and the State.
Governor extends Bakrid wishes
Andhra Pradesh Governor A Abdul Nazeer has conveyed greetings to the people of the State on the solemn occasion of Bakrid (Id-ul-Azha). “I extend my warm greetings and good wishes to all Muslim brethren of Andhra Pradesh. Bakrid holds immense significance in the Islamic faith and is celebrated with special prayers and great reverence.
“Bakrid symbolises sacrifice, absolute devotion to the Almighty and compassion for the poor and emphasises on the principle of sharing. On this auspicious occasion, let the spirit of charity and goodwill towards all be cherished,” he said.
