Members of the Muslim community take part in a peace march to mark Id-e-Milad in Bhubaneswar on Monday.

The participants raised their voices against terrorism and urged for peace and universal brotherhood in the twin cities. Commemorating the birth anniversary of Prophet Mohammad,the festival witnessed members of the community taking out processions and visiting mosques.

"Chanting slogans in praise of the Prophet while taking part in the procession instils respect. We want members of other communities to join us in celebrating the day with us," said Kashifa Sarfaraz, a resident of Nayapalli in Bhubaneswar. Secretary of Aman Committee in Cuttack Ramzan Khan said it was on this auspicious day that people of Islam remember the Prophet's teachings.

"It is a festival that marks unity and is a chance for people of different religions to share goods and exchange gifts," said Khan. Police had made elaborate security arrangements for the smooth conduct of the procession on prominent routes in both cities.

 

Text by Anwesha Ambaly

Picture by Sanjib Mukherjee