Muslims celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr in Kerala

Marking the culmination of the holy fasting month of Ramadan, Muslims in Kerala today celebrated Eid-ul-Fitr offering prayers and giving alms to the needy and exchanging greetings and gifts.
Faithfuls thronged in mosques in large numbers across the state to offer special prayers and namaz to mark the auspicious day.
In Thiruvananthapuram, Palayam mosque Imam led the prayers at the Chandrasekharan Nair stadium.
Clergies and scholars urged the devotees, who took part in the prayers, to dedicate themselves to Islamic tenets of peace, harmony and brotherhood.
Traditional delicacies were prepared at the Muslim houses especially in the Malabar region (north Kerala) as part of the festivities.

Individuals, families and outfits organised Ramzan charity programmes also in various places where new clothes, food packets and gifts were distributed to the poor and needy.
Kerala Governor Justice Retired P Sathasviam and Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan were among those who greeted Keralites on the occasion.
In his Eid message, Vijayan said "may this Eid day ensure togetherness of all minds through its message of brotherhood and humanity.