In training: Muslims set for celebration of ‘Festival of Sacrifice’ as Hajj pilgrimage ends

Hundreds pack on to a train in Dhaka, Bangladesh ahead of the start of the annual ‘Eid al-adha’ festival, marking the end of the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca. Also known as the ‘Festival of Scarifice,’ it commemorates Prophet Abraham’s readiness to sacrifice his son to show obedience to God.

Traditionally, Muslims read “Salat al-eid”, a special prayer offered to honour the festival on the morning of the festival, which is then followed by the sacrifice of an animal, usually a lamb, goat or cow. Typically, one-third is given to the poor, one divided amongst relatives and the final third cooked and eaten by the family.