Under clear skies, thousands gather for Bakrid prayers across Hyderabad

Thousands gather in Hyderabad for peaceful Id al-Adha prayers, reflecting on tradition, values, and community spirit.

Under clear skies and amid heightened police presence, thousands of worshippers gathered across Hyderabad on Saturday (June 7, 2025) morning to offer Id al-Adha prayers. From sprawling Idgah grounds to neighbourhood mosques, prayers were completed smoothly, followed by the traditional qurbani rituals.

For many, the festival is about more than just rituals. Farzana Begum, a homemaker from Malakpet, said the day holds deep personal meaning. “Id al-Adha is a time of gratitude, sacrifice and sharing. It’s about remembering our faith, spending time with loved ones, and reaching out to those in need. The prayers, the food, the sense of community, it all comes together on this day,” she said.

Ayaan Khan, a 26-year-old graphic designer from Banjara Hills, shared a more contemporary view. “For me, Bakrid is about the spirit behind the tradition, compassion, equality and giving back. It’s less about rituals and more about reconnecting with values that matter, with family and friends around.”

Mohammed Qasim, a 54-year-old schoolteacher from Toli Chowki, reflected on how the nature of the celebration has changed over the years. “Twenty years ago, Id celebrations were quieter, more personal. We’d go to the mosque, then sit down for a simple family meal. Now it’s bigger, more food, more people, and everything’s on social media. The essence is still there, but the atmosphere has changed.”

DCP South-West G. Chandra Mohan said the Bakrid prayers and rituals were conducted in a peaceful and orderly manner across the zone. “All prayers were completed by 10.30 a.m. without any issues. Qurbani and other rituals are currently underway and are expected to conclude shortly. We anticipate that everything will be wrapped up by around 2 p.m.,” he said.

He added that the three major Idgahs in the zone; Hockey Ground, First Lancer and Langar Houz, witnessed sizeable gatherings, with each location drawing close to 6,000 people. “We had adequate police deployment at each site to manage the crowd and ensure smooth conduct of the event. The turnout was disciplined and cooperative,” the officer said.