Mumbai, Aug 28 (IANS) Thousands gathered at the Azad Maidan since Sunday morning cheered as Anna Hazare ended his fast in New Delhi and 17 who were fasting here also called off their protest.

Amid loud cheers went up, the 17 broke their fast minutes after Hazare did. They had boiled jaggery water laced with glucose.

In spite of pouring rain, thousands packed the Azad Maidan.

Dhiraj Rambhiya of Tarun Mitra Mandal, a Jain group that deployed around 70 volunteers to care for those on fast, said: "Boiled jaggery water helps increase haemoglobin levels."

As many as 63 people, including seven women, started their hunger strike along with Hazare Aug 16. Many faced health related problems and had to be shifted to hospitals.

Till Thursday there were 19 people, including five women, who refused to break their fast until Hazare did.

Over the next two days, two people had to break their fast due to poor health.

Many wearing "I Am Anna" caps raised slogans like "Annaji ki jai ho" as Hazare called off the fast.

"It is a victory for people's power and democracy," said a student.

Hazare's village Ralegan Siddhi celebrated with songs, dances and merriment.