Ralegan-Siddhi (Maharashtra), Dec 11 (IANS): As Anna Hazare observed a token fast at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi, residents of his native Ralegan-Siddhi supported him with a total shutdown in the village.

"Nearly 2,000 people have gathered near the Padmavati temple and the village has been shut down entirely. You will not find a single shop open," Hazare's close associate Anil Sharma told IANS.

"More than half of the 2,300 strong village are sitting on a token fast to support Anna. They will break their fast in the evening when Anna does," he added.

Residents of Ralegan-Siddhi have in the past supported him through various forms of non-violent agitation, including a "no bath day" to show their solidarity with Hazare.

Before starting their fast, the residents prayed for Hazare's long life and thanked him for taking forward the cause of the common man.

Hazare is holding a fast in New Delhi to protest a 'weak' Lokpal bill prepared by a parliamentary panel.