Lucknow: In view of the rising number of COVID-19 cases, Islamic scholars and clerics in Uttar Pradesh have given a call to keep Eid celebrations a low-key affair.
In an exclusive interview with ETV Bharat, Maulana Khalid Rasheed Firangi Mahli, president of the Islamic Centre of India, said, "We urge followers that Eid be celebrated in a simple way. Don't shop or sitch new clothes. Muslims should pray wearing old clothes. Celebrate eating together at home but don't organise or participate in any big events."
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He said if the moon sighting is confirmed today, Eid will be on May 13. Else, it will be celebrated on May 14.
Mahli urged followers to donate 50% of the budget reserved for Eid celebrations among the poor. "As far as Eid prayers are concerned, they should be offered in the mosque. However, only the same set of five people who have been offering namaz at a time in the mosque will be allowed for the Eid-ul-Fitr prayers," he said.
Earlier, the Uttar Pradesh government had issued guidelines that only five devotees at a time can enter any religious place.
