Kuala Lumpur: It is a grim Eid al-Adha in the Muslim world, the second under lockdown for many but this year is the worst.
In Saudi Arabia, only 60,000 people were allowed for the Haj rituals. Makka, where millions used to gather on this auspicious day, was almost empty.
Wearing masks and the ihram, the pilgrims in a seamless white garment, each threw seven stones at a pillar symbolising Satan.
But the snake that has enveloped the world with the COVID-19 is still strangulating us.
The 60,000 Hajj pilgrims were transported, amid strict health measures, to Mina after midnight on Monday.
INDONESIA
In Indonesia, the government bans large gatherings and toughens travel restrictions.
The world’s most populous Muslim country has never seen such restrictions for these celebrations.
This was made necessary after three weeks of surging infections and deaths.
This has resulted in Indonesia replacing India as Asia’s Covid-19 hotspot.
UNITED KINGDOM
In the UK, families gather to celebrate Eid. Eased restrictions made it possible for them to be in groups.
However, many remain cautious, but some remained cautious about meeting in large groups.
There a large Eid festival in Southall Park, west London, on Tuesday, which featured funfair rides and music.
