Eid Milad-un-Nabi in Pakistan
Eid Milad-un-Nabi, also known as the birthday of Prophet Muhammad, is a public holiday in Pakistan.Sunni Muslims observe this day on 12 Rabi-ul-Awwal, the third month of the Islamic calendar, while Shia Muslims celebrate it on 17 Rabi-ul-Awwal, which also marks the birthdate of their sixth Imam, Jafar-al-Sadiq.
Is Eid Milad-un-Nabi a Public Holiday
Yes, Eid Milad-un-Nabi is a public holiday in Pakistan. Schools, most businesses, and government offices remain closed on this day.
Observance of Eid Milad-un-Nabi in Pakistan
The observance of Milad-un-Nabi varies according to different Islamic traditions. Some scholars oppose the celebration, citing the lack of historical evidence that Prophet Muhammad celebrated birthdays.Many Muslims honor this day with religious fervor and festive activities.
The day typically begins with a 31-gun salute in the federal capital and a 21-gun salute in provincial capitals. The national flag is hoisted on major public buildings, and mosques, government institutions, and even homes are illuminated and decorated.
Seerat Conferences: Honoring the Prophet’s Teachings
Seerat conferences, which focus on the teachings and life of Prophet Muhammad, are held at both federal and provincial levels. These conferences include recitations of Naat (poetry in praise of the Prophet) and Quran recitation competitions, where prizes are awarded to outstanding participants.
The Significance of Eid Milad-un-Nabi in Pakistan
Charitable activities are also a significant part of the day. People distribute food and sweets to the needy and donate to orphanages, asylums, and facilities for the physically and mentally challenged.
Special prayers are offered in mosques, and religious leaders preach the teachings of the Prophet. Stories highlighting his virtues, such as forgiveness, kindness, bravery, and honesty, are shared with the community.
The Role of Processions and Public Gatherings
In major cities, Milad-un-Nabi processions are organized, starting from central locations, passing through designated routes, and returning to the starting point. These processions are an important part of the day’s celebrations, bringing together large crowds of people.
Public Life During Eid Milad-un-Nabi in Pakistan
Eid Milad-un-Nabi is a public holiday, so government and semi-government offices, most private businesses, shopping malls, post offices, and educational institutions are closed. Public transport may be affected due to processions, so it’s advisable to check with local transport authorities if you need to travel.
Historical Background of Milad-un-Nabi Celebrations
The first public celebrations of Milad-un-Nabi began in Egypt towards the end of the 11th century, mainly among the Shia ruling class. The festivities included Koran recitations, animal sacrifices, public sermons, and feasts.
Sunni and Shia Observances of Milad-un-Nabi
Sunnis first publicly observed Milad-un-Nabi in the 12th century in Syria under the rule of Noor-un-Din Zangi. By 1910, it had become an official national festival throughout the Ottoman Empire. Today, Milad-un-Nabi is an official holiday in many Muslim-majority countries.
Symbols and Traditions of Milad-un-Nabi
Green pennants are commonly seen during Milad-un-Nabi processions and on shrines and mosques, as green was a favored color of the Prophet Muhammad. It is believed that the Prophet chose a green flag to represent the Islamic community during his life. On the eve of 12 Rabi-ul-Awwal, candles and oil lamps (Chiragan) are lit to celebrate the Prophet’s birth.
Since Muslims follow a lunar calendar, the Gregorian dates for Muslim holidays shift by about 11 days each year, making them earlier than the previous year.
Quick Facts
This year: Monday, 17 September 2024 (Tentative Date)
Next year: Friday, 5 September 2025 (Tentative Date)
Last year: Friday, 29 September 2023
Type: Public Holiday