For first time in 20 years, Nitish Kumar skips Eid prayers at Gandhi Maidan; son Nishant attends

For the first time in nearly two decades, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar did not attend the Eid-ul-Fitr prayers at Gandhi Maidan in Patna, breaking a long-standing tradition.  Around 20,000 people, including children and elderly worshippers, participated in the prayers, creating a spiritually charged atmosphere. The steady rainfall did little to dampen the enthusiasm as people continued to gather in large numbers to mark the occasion.

In the Chief Minister’s absence, his son Nishant Kumar attended the event. He arrived at the venue with Chief Minister-level security and was accompanied by several leaders of the Janata Dal (United), including Ashok Choudhary. Muslim community leaders welcomed him on the dais and honoured him with a traditional gamcha.

Authorities had made extensive arrangements for the prayers, including strict security at entry points and a large loudspeaker system to ensure the Imam’s voice reached the entire gathering. Eid prayers were also organised at other prominent locations in the city, including Jama Masjid, Patna Junction area and Phulwari Sharif, with the celebrations concluding peacefully despite the rain.