Thousands of Muslims from all over the metropolitan area joyfully bustled into to join in on the global celebrations of Eid-ul-Adha at different locations throughout Illinois . While there were various venues that held Eid prayers throughout the region, one of the largest turnouts was at the Bristol Court Banquet. The block was quite a sight to passersby. Groups of individuals in vibrant Indian-Pakistani clothing flooded the parking lots as they made their way to the exquisite banquet hall to commemorate the glorious day.
Women in vibrant colored dresses, men in ethnic outfits and children, smiling and laughing, filled the parking lots and were pouring into the hotel lobby. As individuals worked through the crowded doorways, volunteers from Eid committee gathered funds to recover event expenses. Demonstrating true Islamic generosity, many emptied their pockets and purses into the collecting bins before taking their shoes off and heading into the prayer halls. Men and women continuously and open-heartedly made space for incoming members so everyone would be able to partake in the Prayer (Salah).
Many leaders from many different fields such as medical, sports entertainment, political , teaching spiritual leaders and prominent community leader were present at Eid prayer. Iftekhar Shareef well known businessman / Prominent community leader, and Consulate General of India Dr.Ausaf Sayeed with entire families were present at 10:30am Salah.Iftekhar Shareef wished Indian community a very Happy Dasera, Durga Pooja and a happy Batukamma.
Prayer (Salah) was recited throughout the morning and afternoon to accommodate the 8,000 enthusiastic individuals in attendance. First Salah at 9.30 A.M, Imam / Khateeb: Sheik Amin, Second Salah at 10:30 A.M, Imam / Khateeb: Moulana Uviedullah Saleem and Third Salah at 11:30 A.M, Imam / Khateeb: Moulana Hafiz Zawwat
Despite the large masses, the Mount Prospect Police, Bristol Court Banquet Staff, The Central Eid Committee of Greater Chicago members and numerous volunteers were able to direct the crowds effortlessly and efficiently.
Eid-ul-Zuha, also known as Eid-ul-Adha, is celebrated to honour and commemorate the willingness of Prophet Abraham to sacrifice his son, Ismail, on God’s command. Muslims around the world celebrate Eid-ul-Zuha to mark the end of the haj pilgrimage by slaughtering sheep, goats, camels and cows on this day said shareef.
Men, women and children dress in their finest attire, and those who can afford to sacrifice an entire halal animal and donate the meat to neighbors and those who are less fortunate. The sacrificed animal is referred to as Udiyyah (meaning “the sacrificed” in Arabic), and has to meet a certain set of rules, which include being of a certain age and of the highest quality available.
Governor Quinn Statement on the Occasion of Eid al-Adha
“Eid al-Adha – the ‘Festival of Sacrifice’ – is a holiday during which we share with those who are hungry, sick or in need. “During this special time, we are reminded that sacrifice and compassion are two qualities necessary to make the world a better place and assure no one is left behind. “In the spirit of humility and warmth, I wish Illinois’ 500,000 Muslim residents and Muslims around the world a blessed Eid.”
Statement by the President on Hajj and Eid al-Adha:
Michelle and I would like to extend our best wishes to Muslims in the United States and around the world who are celebrating Eid al-Adha, and to congratulate those performing the Hajj this year.
As our Muslim neighbors and friends gather for Eid celebrations, Muslim Americans are among the millions of pilgrims joining one of the world’s largest and most diverse gatherings. Hajj brings together Muslims from around the world – Sunni and Shiite – to share in reverent prayer, side by side. It serves as a reminder that no matter one’s tribe or sect, race or religion, gender or age, we are equals in humanity.
On Eid, Muslims continue the tradition of donating to the poor and joining efforts with other faith communities in providing assistance to those suffering from hunger, sickness, oppression, and conflict. Their service is a powerful example of the shared roots of the world’s Abrahamic faiths and how our communities can come together in shared peace, with dignity and a sense of justice.
On behalf of the American people, we extend our warmest greetings during this holiday. May the prayers of peace made by the Hajj pilgrims and those of all faiths around the world be heard and granted. Eid Mubarak
“EID Is The Combination of 3 Meaningful Words, E – Embrace with open heart, I – Inspire with impressive attitude and D – Distribute pleasure to all. Warm wishes on “EID-UL-Adha” and wishing that it brings your way ever joys and happiness. Eid Mubarak.” Said by Iftekhar Shareef prominent community leader present where from The Central Eid Committee of Greater Chicago
Amjad Hashmi, Rafeeq Zainulabedin, Sr. Mazher Ahmed, Raja Razzak, Mohammed Ilyas Khokhar and Khaja Basheer Ahmed where all present.