Eid Milad-Un-Nabi 2018: Date, Importance and History

The day is observed by Muslims to mark the birthday of Prophet Mohammed.

Children greet each other on Eid-ul-Fitr. Image used for representation. 

(Photo: AP)

This year, Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi will be observed from 20-21 November across India.

Milad-un-Nabi marks the birthday of Prophet Muhammad, who is believed to be the messenger of God in Islam.

Significance of Eid Milad un Nabi

According to legend, Prophet Muhammad was born on the twelfth day of Rabee-ul-Awwal, the third month of the Islamic lunar calendar. The day is recognised as a national holiday in several Muslim-majority countries across the world.

The day is dedicated to the Prophet and his teachings. As a tradition, parents tell stories of the Prophet's life to their children. The event is also marked by public gatherings and processions, where people make speeches on the life of the Prophet.

Ajmer Sharif Dargah on Eid-e-Milad(Picture: PTI)

In addition to this, songs are sung in praise of the Prophet. In some places, people also light lamps, and decorate mosques and their homes.

Festivities, Feasts and Charity

Different kinds of foods and dishes are prepared during Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi. Families gather together, feasts are cooked and distributed to the poor and the unprivileged. Muslims also donate to charity on this day.

Eid-e-Milad in India

India is noted for its Eid-e-Milad-un-nabi festivities. The relics of the Prophet are displayed in Jammu and Kashmir's Hazratbal Shrine, where night-long prayers are also held every year.

People react upon seeing a relic believed to be a hair from the beard of Prophet Mohammed, on the festival of Eid-e-Milad-ul-Nabi at the Hazratbal shrine in Srinagar.(Picture: Reuters)

Hyderabad is also noted for its special festivities. Religious meetings, night-long prayers, rallies, and parades are held throughout the city