Bakrid celebrated with prayers, charity, food & family gatherings

Pune: Bakrid was celebrated in the city on Thursday with early morning prayers, family gatherings and acts of charity. Mosques in Camp, Kondhwa, Nana Peth, Bhavani Peth and Hadapsar witnessed large crowds from as early as 6am, with worshippers dressed in traditional attire gathering for namaz and exchanging greetings.

Families returned home following prayers to carry out qurbani, the ritual sacrifice performed in remembrance of Prophet Ibrahim’s devotion and faith. Many residents distributed portions of meat among relatives, neighbours and underprivileged families, while homes bustled with preparations of biryani, korma and sheer khurma through the day.

Goat markets in areas such as Kondhwa, Undri and Chakan saw heavy footfall in the days leading to the festival. Traders said prices rose noticeably due to transportation and fodder costs this year, with several goats selling between Rs20,000 to Rs1 lakh — depending on breed, weight and size.

Businessman Kashif Shaikh of Pimpri explained the significance of qurbani. He said the ritual is connected to charity and community support. “The meat from the sacrificed animal is divided into three equal portions. One part is kept for the family, one is shared with relatives and friends and one portion is donated to people in need. That is the real meaning of Bakrid, making sure nobody is left out of the celebration,” he said.

“It is about sharing. After namaz, our entire family gathered at home. We distributed meat to friends and acquaintances, and spent the afternoon visiting relatives. The spirit of the festival feels complete only when everyone eats together,” said Mohammed Arif Shaikh, a resident of Nana Peth.

In Kondhwa, software engineer Saniya Khan (26 ) said the day began before sunrise. “My mother had been preparing and cooking since early morning. The house was full of cousins and guests by afternoon. Even friends from other communities came for lunch,” she said.

The rising cost of livestock meant celebrating modestly for some families, this year. “Goat prices were definitely higher than last year, so we pooled in money within the family. Bakrid is not about showing off. The important thing is prayer, sacrifice and helping people who have less,” said rickshaw driver Irfan Mulani of Hadapsar.

Children dressed in their festive best, received Eidi from elders and posed for photographs outside mosques.

Food delivery workers also reported a surge in orders through the day.

College student Mohammed Irfan of Kondhwa said, “Every year, people in our lane celebrate together. Neighbours exchange food regardless of religion. Everyone sits outside chatting and eating by evening.”