Bhubaneswar/Cuttack, June 26: Thousands of Muslims today offered prayers in mosques and hosted feasts on the occasion of Id in the twin cities.

Prayers were offered in all the 35 mosques and idgahs in Cuttack. "This sacred festival marks the end of the holy month of Ramazan and also the month-long fasting. Thus Id-ul Fitr is also known as the festival of breaking fast," said Ramjan Khan, president of managing committee of Qadam-e-Rasool.

The Qadam-e-Rasool at Dargha Bazaar, where the footprint of the Prophet Muhammad has been placed, is the most revered place of Muslims for offering mass prayers. About 5,000 Muslims offered mass prayer at Qadam-e-Rasool, while nearly 10,000 people offered prayers at the idgah at Sati Chaura.

"The Sati Chaura idgah has special significance. It allows people to offer prayers even at 10.30am. The place witnesses a lot of rush as those who fail to offer prayers during the morning hours come here later in the day," Khan said.

"Those, who miss the prayers at this time, have to wait till the end of Ramazan next year," he said.

According to the traditional Muslim belief, the Quran was revealed to Prophet Muhammad in the last 10 days of Ramazan and Id-ul Fitr also commemorates the occasion. This day signifies Muslim brotherhood and their devotion towards the almighty that helps people attain self-control.

"We believe that fasting throughout the month of Ramazan gives us a chance to win over our vices and come closer to Allah. So, once the month ends, the celebrations of Id-ul Fitr begin and continue for next few days," said Baropathar resident Mustaq Khan.

Sweets and traditional desserts were also distributed and served among the community members as well as to the needy as a gesture of sharing and good luck.

Id-ul Zuha symbolises the spirit of sacrifice and many exquisite meat dishes are cooked to mark the occasion, while Id-ul Fitr is dedicated to the celebrations of traditional desserts. Hence it is also called Meethi Id.

Id was also celebrated in Puri with a lot of excitement. Youngsters visited homes of their friends and various Mughlai dishes such as chicken and mutton biryani, kebab, korma, haleem and sweet dishes such sewaiyya, kheer and lachha were prepared.

People wore new clothes, exchanged gifts with their loved ones and various delicacies were prepared to mark the occasion.

"Once Ramazan is over, the following day is celebrated as Id by eating something sweet in the morning first. It also signifies starting the day on a sweet note after a month of abstinence and praying," said Sutahat resident Sarfaraz Khan.

The festive fervour was also witnessed in Balasore, Rourkela, Berhampur and other regions of the state.