MINA (Saudi Arabia), Oct 26: Some 2.5 million pilgrims from across the world pelted pillars representing Satan with stones on Friday, the first day of the Eidul Azha holiday here.

Pilgrims from 189 countries advanced in waves around Jamrat al-Aqaba, the largest of three adjacent pillars, in the rite that will continue at least until Saturday. The ritual marks the start of one of the most sacred Muslim holidays.

Roads inside Mina and those leading to the city were choked with pilgrims trying to reach the camps set up to receive them according to their country of origin.

On the first day of Eidul Azha pilgrims must head to Makkah to perform the Tawaf.—AFP

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