Thiruvananthapuram:
Muslims in Kerala on Friday celebrated Bakrid with prayers and acts of charity, recalling the unflinching faith and dedication shown by Prophet Ibrahim to the Almighty.
The faithful thronged mosques and specially arranged Id-gahs across the state in the morning for prayers, where Imams and religious scholars gave out the Eid message of total dedication to God, universal love and compassion.
Actor Mammootty was among hundreds, who turned up to offer namaz at the Id gah in Kochi.
The believers hugged each other after the prayers, reinforcing the sense of brotherhood and harmony.
At homes, sumptuous feasts were cooked, dominated by delicious items from the Kerala Muslim cuisine blending the best of the local tradition with a West Asian touch, reflecting centuries old link of Keralites with the Arab world.
Chief Minister Oommen Chandy, Opposition leader V S Achuthandnan and leaders of various political parties greeted people on the occasion.
In his message, Indian Union Muslim League President and spiritual leader of Mappila Muslims, Panakkad Syid Hyderali Shihab Thangal, urged the believers to strive selflessly for the well-being of the society and the country displaying a deep sense of sacrifice.
He wanted the faithful to be vigilant against the evil designs of "vested interests" to create strife among different communities to secure their narrow goals.