Date:26/10/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/10/26/stories/2006102616220300.htm

Andhra Pradesh - Hyderabad

Gaiety, charity mark Ramzan

Staff Reporter

Devout Muslims gather in thousands to offer prayers, exchange greetings

UNITED IN DEVOTION: Muslims offering Id-ul-Fitr prayers at the Shantinagar Idgah in Hyderabad on Wednesday. -- PHOTO: P.V. Sivakumar

HYDERABAD: Marking the end of the holy month of Ramzan, Id-ul-Fitr was celebrated with fervour in different parts of the city on Wednesday.

Thousands of Muslims gathered at Idgah near Miralam Tank to offer prayers from 10 a.m. The prayers were followed by greetings of `Id Mubarak.' Mecca Masjid at Charminar too witnessed a large congregation.

Muslim devout later thronged old age homes and orphanages to offer `Zakat', a practice of giving charity in connection with the festival.

Meanwhile, the police made elaborate arrangements for the smooth conduct of prayers. Traffic was diverted through alternate routes for the convenience of people. APSRTC has operated special buses to Miralam Tank from all the major bus stations in the twin cities.