Pakistan, June 6 -- Mina, Saudi Arabia - Over 1.6 million Muslim pilgrims took part in the symbolic "stoning of the devil" ritual on Friday, as the annual Haj pilgrimage neared its end. This important ritual marks the final major step before pilgrims begin celebrating Eidul Azha. Pakistan will observe the festival tomorrow (Saturday).

From early morning, pilgrims walked toward Mina, near Makkah, to throw stones at three large walls called the Jamarat. These walls represent the devil. The ritual honours Prophet Ibrahim (A.S), who, according to Islamic tradition, threw stones at Satan when he tried to stop him from following God's command.

Despite the hot weather, many pilgrims said the process went smoothly. "It took just five minutes," ...