Arab News Japan

TOKYO: Muslim residents of Tokyo celebrated Eid Al Adha in various mosques in the Japanese capital, with morning prayers followed by gatherings to exchange blessings and wishes, and to enjoy food.

Imams from the mosques conducted the Eid ceremonies followed by the salat, or prayers, to all Muslims from various backgrounds, including Arabs, Japanese, Pakistanis, Bangladeshis, Malaysians, Africans, and Myanmar’s’ observing the ritual of morning prayers.

The Imam of the Islamic Culture Exchange Center in Japan, Sheikh MAENO Ahmed, explained the meaning of this holy Eid and said funds were being collected from the faithful to bring to people in need.

He also prayed for solidarity with the Palestinians and others in Palestine and Gaza under attack by Israel and called on Muslim nations to extend their support.

At a nearby park, believers from Uzbekistan came to prepare samosas for the participants while Japanese women offered kakigori – crushed ice covered with syrup – to refresh the participants.

The atmosphere was warm and filled with compassion, friendship and family piety, and the festival was held in a place where all Muslims wished each other Eid Mubarak with hugs at the end of the prayers.