Thousands congregate in Jamshedpur for prayers on last Friday of Ramadan

Muslims offer prayers on the last Jumma before Eid

Jamshedpur: Thousands of Muslims across the city gathered at mosques and open prayer grounds to observe the last Jumma (Friday) prayers before Eid-ul-Fitr, marking the culmination of the holy month of Ramadan. The special congregational prayers, held with immense devotion and reverence, witnessed a massive turnout as worshippers sought divine blessings ahead of the festival.

Major mosques in the city, including Sakchi Jama Masjid, Auliya Masjid, Bistupur Mosque, Dhatkidih Mosque, Azadnagar Mosque, and Burmamines Masjid, were packed with devotees offering their prayers in unison. Many mosques had to arrange for additional space to accommodate the swelling crowds, with special arrangements made for worshippers to pray outside in adjoining streets and open grounds.

The largest congregation was seen at Jama Masjid in Sakchi, where thousands gathered early in the morning to secure a place inside the mosque. Similar scenes were witnessed at the Bistupur and Azadnagar mosques, where community members offered prayers in an atmosphere of peace and spiritual fervor.

On this significant Friday, also known as Jumatul Vida, Muslims offered dua (supplications), seeking peace, prosperity, and well-being for themselves, their families, and the entire nation. Imams and religious leaders delivered sermons emphasizing the importance of kindness, charity, and gratitude, urging the community to extend support to the less fortunate during the joyous occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr.

Considering the massive turnout, the local administration and police had made elaborate security and traffic arrangements. Special deployment of police personnel was ensured at key locations to facilitate smooth movement of devotees and prevent any untoward incidents. Traffic restrictions were put in place around major mosques, with volunteers assisting in crowd management.

Municipal authorities also took steps to ensure cleanliness and hygiene around prayer sites, while civic bodies arranged for drinking water facilities to help worshippers cope with the warm weather.

Following the Jumma prayers, the city’s markets witnessed a surge of shoppers making final purchases for Eid. Areas like Sakchi, Bistupur, and Mango were abuzz with activity as people thronged garment shops, sweet stores, and roadside stalls selling traditional sherwanis, kurtas, bangles, henna, and footwear. Sweet shops reported an increase in demand for sewaiyan, dry fruits, and special Eid delicacies.

As part of Ramadan traditions, many worshippers fulfilled their obligation of Zakat (charity) by distributing food, clothes, and financial aid to the underprivileged. Several mosques and community organizations arranged for iftar meals for those in need, ensuring that the blessings of Ramadan reached all sections of society.

With Eid-ul-Fitr expected to be celebrated on March 31, subject to the sighting of the crescent moon, the excitement among the community is palpable. Families are busy with last-minute preparations, and children eagerly await the festivities, gifts, and special Eid feasts.

As the holy month of Ramadan nears its end, the last Juma prayers served as a spiritual climax, bringing the community together in devotion, gratitude, and anticipation for the joyous occasion of Eid.