Sri Vijaya Puram, May 28: Warm greetings and messages of communal harmony marked the occasion of Eid-ul-Zuha across the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, with Lieutenant Governor and the (AATO) extending wishes to residents celebrating the festival.
In his message issued on the eve of the festival, Admiral D K Joshi, PVSM, AVSM, YSM, NM, VSM (Retd.), who also serves as Vice Chairman of the Islands Development Agency, conveyed heartfelt greetings and warm wishes to all residents of the Islands on the auspicious occasion of Id-ul-Zuha.
Describing the festival as a symbol of selflessness, compassion and service to humanity, the Lieutenant Governor said the occasion reminds people of their shared responsibilities towards one another and inspires society to strengthen the values of brotherhood, social harmony and peaceful coexistence.
He emphasized that festivals such as Eid-ul-Zuha carry a deeper social message that goes beyond celebration and encourage communities to uphold ideals of forgiveness, generosity and mutual respect.
“As we celebrate this joyous occasion, let us reaffirm our commitment to helping those in need and strengthening the bonds of unity and understanding,” the Lieutenant Governor stated in his message.
He also expressed hope that the spirit of the festival would continue guiding the Islands towards collective well-being, communal harmony and inclusive development.
The Lieutenant Governor further prayed for happiness, peace, prosperity and harmony in every household and wished continued progress for the Andaman & Nicobar Islands on the path of peace and social unity.
Meanwhile, the Andaman Association of Tour Operators (AATO) also extended Eid-ul-Adha greetings to residents and visitors celebrating the festival.
In a press release issued by AATO President M. Vinod, the tourism body conveyed warm wishes on behalf of its members and office bearers, expressing hope that the sacred occasion would bring peace, prosperity, happiness and harmony to all.
The association stated that Eid-ul-Adha serves as a reminder of values such as compassion, sacrifice, unity and humanity, while inspiring people to strengthen social bonds and togetherness.
AATO wished that the festival would fill every home with blessings, happiness and good health.
The messages from both the Administration and tourism stakeholders come as residents across the Islands prepare to celebrate the festival with prayers, charitable activities and community gatherings.
Eid-ul-Zuha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, holds deep religious significance in Islam and is observed to commemorate devotion, sacrifice and faith. The festival is also associated with acts of charity and sharing, with families traditionally distributing food and extending support to the underprivileged.
Across the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, festivals of different communities are often marked by participation and goodwill cutting across religious and cultural lines, reflecting the multicultural social fabric of the Union Territory.
Community leaders and organizations have also been appealing to residents to celebrate responsibly while maintaining the spirit of harmony and mutual respect that the Islands are known for.
The occasion is expected to witness gatherings at mosques and community spaces across various islands, with families and well-wishers exchanging greetings and participating in traditional observances.
Both the Lieutenant Governor and AATO concluded their messages by wishing residents a peaceful and joyous Eid-ul-Zuha and calling for continued unity and brotherhood across society.
