Russia’s Muslims are celebrating a major religious holiday, Uraza Bayram, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan. Celebrations are taking place in the capital’s four mosques, as well as several stadiums and parks.

­Elsewhere in the Muslim world, the holiday is usually known as Eid ul-Fitr.

Moscow authorities have deployed around 3,000 police officers to provide security during the day.

Traffic will be limited around the capital beginning at 12:30 pm, and lasting until the end of the day.

Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated Russian Muslims on the eve of the holiday, wishing them welfare, health, and success in good deeds. Putin said that by their “fruitful” activity, Muslim organizations are making a significant contribution to the preservation and development of Russia’s national and cultural traditions.

The launch of Russia’s first Islamic channel is to become another present from, and for, Russian Muslims. The opening of Al-RTV was timed to coincide with Uraza Bayram.

“This is a long-awaited project. Russian muftis who met the Russian president asked him to assist in the opening of a Muslim television channel,” said Albir Krganov, a Public Council member of the Al-RTV television channel. “Today, people read fewer books. They prefer Internet and television. There should be a way to educate them,” he added.

Muslim community members praying near the Cathedral Mosque on Mira Avenue during the festival of Uraza Bayram. The festival marks the end of the fast during the holy month of Ramadan.(RIA Novosti/Artem Zhitenev)
RIA Novosti/Ramil Sitdikov
RIA Novosti/Artem Zhitenev
RIA Novosti/Ramil Sitdikov