Which Eid Is Today? Celebrating Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi, Sept 5

Today, September 5, 2025, marks the sacred and widely celebrated occasion of Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi, a day of profound significance for Muslims around the world. Also known as Mawlid, this festival commemorates the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), the final messenger in Islam. It is a day of deep spiritual reflection, communal harmony, and a vibrant display of devotion, as millions of believers come together to honor the life, teachings, and legacy of the Prophet. The observance of this day is steeped in history and tradition, with its customs and rituals varying across different regions, yet its central message of love, peace, and compassion remains universal.

The History and Significance of Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi

The celebration of the Prophet's birthday is believed to have started in the early Islamic period, but it gained widespread popularity and became a more formal public celebration during the 11th century. The term "Mawlid" is Arabic for "birth," and the festival is observed on the 12th day of Rabi' al-Awwal, the third month of the Islamic lunar calendar. While the Prophet was born on this day in Mecca in 570 CE, the celebrations began later as a means for followers to remember and honor his life and teachings.

The observance of Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi serves as a powerful reminder of the Prophet's role as a source of divine guidance and a model of moral and ethical conduct. His life, marked by humility, compassion, justice, and unwavering faith, is a beacon for Muslims. The occasion provides an opportunity for believers to deepen their spiritual connection, renew their commitment to his teachings, and strive to emulate his noble character.

The significance of the month of Rabi' al-Awwal extends beyond just the birth of the Prophet. It was also the month in which he began his historic journey of Hijrah (migration) from Mecca to Medina, and where he built the first mosque in Islamic history. Therefore, the entire month is considered blessed and is a time of increased prayer and good deeds.

How Is Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi Celebrated?

The celebrations of Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi are a tapestry of diverse customs and traditions that vary from region to region, reflecting the rich cultural diversity of the Muslim world. However, a common thread runs through all these celebrations: a spirit of reverence, joy, and community.

• Processions (Juloos): One of the most prominent features of the celebrations, especially in countries like India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, are the grand public processions. Known as "Juloos-e-Milad," these processions see thousands of people marching together, often carrying banners, flags, and reciting praises (Naats) for the Prophet. The streets are often decorated with lights and green banners, creating a festive atmosphere.

• Charitable Acts and Feasts: A core tenet of the celebrations is the emphasis on charity and generosity. Many Muslims prepare special meals, sweets, and dishes, which are then distributed among family, friends, neighbors, and, most importantly, the poor and needy. This act of sharing is a direct reflection of the Prophet's teachings on compassion and helping those less fortunate.

• Religious Gatherings and Sermons: The day is marked by special prayer meetings, known as "Milad Mehfils," held in mosques and community centers. During these gatherings, scholars and religious leaders deliver sermons on the Prophet's life, his character, and his teachings. Recitation from the Quran and devotional poetry in praise of the Prophet are also central to these events.

• Decorations: Homes, mosques, and public places are beautifully decorated with lights, lanterns, and banners. This creates a visually stunning and celebratory environment that can be seen and felt throughout the community.

Differing Views and a Call for Unity

While Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi is widely celebrated, it is important to acknowledge that not all Muslim sects observe it with the same fervor. Some branches of Islam, particularly the Salafi and Wahabi movements, do not recognize the celebration, arguing that it is a later innovation that was not practiced by the Prophet himself or his early companions. They believe that focusing on his birthday takes away from the central message of God's oneness (Tawhid).

However, for the vast majority of Muslims, the celebration is seen as an expression of love and reverence for the Prophet and a way to remember and live by his exemplary life. It is viewed not just as a joyous occasion but also as a powerful tool for community building and for educating the younger generation about the Prophet's enduring legacy of peace, tolerance, and social justice.

The different interpretations of this day highlight the diversity of beliefs and practices within the Muslim community. Despite these differences, the spirit of mutual respect and understanding remains paramount, with all Muslims united by their faith in the Prophet's message.

Eid-e-Milad in the Context of Today

Today, September 5, 2025, the celebration of Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi is a holiday in many parts of India, including Delhi and other states. This has resulted in the closure of schools and banks, allowing people to fully participate in the day's events. The coincidence of the holiday with a Friday has created a long weekend for many, further facilitating family gatherings and community observances.

However, the stock markets in India, a separate entity with its own calendar, remained open for trading today, though it was a "settlement holiday" where transactions would be processed on the next working day. This logistical detail highlights the complexities of managing a national holiday while ensuring the continuity of critical financial services.

In a world often marked by conflict and division, the celebration of Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi serves as a poignant reminder of the power of unity and the timeless message of peace that Prophet Muhammad brought to the world. It is a day to reflect on his teachings and to embody his values of compassion, forgiveness, and kindness, not just for one day, but for every day to come