Clerics adjust Juma Namaz timings for Holi

With Holi falling on Friday, March 14, Muslim clerics in Lucknow, including the Imam of Lucknow Eidgah, have advised mosques to hold Juma Namaz at 2 pm instead of the usual 12 noon. The Eidgah Imam also urged worshippers to offer prayers at their local mosques rather than travelling to distant ones.
The advisory was issued by Maulana Khalid Rasheed Farangi Mahali, chairman of the Islamic Centre of India and an executive member of the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB). He noted that since Holi celebrations with colours continue until 1 pm, it would be appropriate to schedule Juma Namaz later in the afternoon. Namaz at Jama Masjid Eidgah in Lucknow will also be held at 2 pm instead of 12:45 pm on March 14.
In Sambhal, it was decided that Hindus will celebrate Holi until 2:30 pm, after which Muslims will offer Juma Namaz. Senior police officials confirmed that seven companies of the Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) have been deployed in the city to ensure peace during the festival.