Milad Un Nabi

When is Milad Un Nabi 2022?

All Muslims across the world observe Milad un Nabi, also known as The Prophet's Birthday. The holiday commemorates the birth of the Prophet Mohammed, who was the messenger of God in Islam.

Who was Prophet Mohammed?

Prophet Mohammed is believed to have been born in Mecca in the year 570, and his full name was bū al-Qāsim Muḥammad ibn ʿAbd Allāh ibn ʿAbd al-Muṭṭalib ibn Hāshim. He is believed to have been a descendant of Ishmael, the son of Abraham. As an orphan, he was raised by his uncle Abu Talib and grandpa Abdul-Muttalib from whom he learnt the business and became a trustworthy trader. At the age of 40, Angel Gabriel ordered him to declare God's oneness and shun idolatry of his people. For 20 years, he preached the Quran to God's people and established one of the greatest religions, Islam.

When is Milad un Nabi?

Milad un Nabi is observed on the 12th day of Rabi-Ul Anwwal in the third month of the Muslim calendar. Considering that Muslims use the Islamic lunar calendar, the dates in the Gregorian calendar vary each year. Milad un Nabi 2020 will be marked on Thursday, 29th October.

Is Milad un Nabi a public holiday?

Milad un Nabi is a gazetted public holiday in India. It is observed in all the Indian states and union territories, thus making it a day off to the general public.

What is open or closed on Milad un Nabi?

On Milad un Nabi, government offices, schools, post offices, banks, and most organisations remain closed. Some businesses may opt to close or work on reduced hours. Public transport may be affected, it is necessary to contact the local transport authorities to check on the timetables. There is, however, likely to be heavy traffic due to large prayer meetings and parades in areas with large Muslim populations.

Things to do on Milad un Nabi

Muslims in different places celebrate the holiday differently. Some people treat the day as a feast, while to others, it is a solemn day.

As a Muslim, this is a day to celebrate the advent of Prophet Mohammed with prayers and understanding the teachings of the Quran in depth. The mosques are open throughout, and you can take advantage of it and spend night long prayer meetings as you listen to Milad un Nabi poetry and sermons about Prophet Mohammed.

Members of the clergy distribute treats such as sweets and honey to the Muslim faithful. Many scholars believe that Prophet Mohammed's favourite treat was honey, and sharing it on his birthday makes it very significant.

In Kashmir and Jammu, Muslims carry green flags, wear green ribbons and banners and then gather at the Hazratbal shrine in Srinagar. The green colour is symbolic in Islam as it represents paradise. It is believed that that the shrine houses a hair believed to have been Prophet Mohammed's. Every year, during Milad un Nabi, the relic is displayed for the public after the morning prayers.

Besides the many public events happening on Milad un Nabi, you can still spare time and be with your family and friends. Together, you can reflect on the deeds and teachings of Prophet Mohammed and discuss ways to improve your actions as a family. As you bond with each other, be sure to sing the famous Maulud song. It is believed that the song brings good fortune and also reaffirms Muslims' loyalty to God.

As a parent, narrate to your children the life story of Prophet Mohammed and help them understand his teachings. Additionally, do some fun activities together, such as lighting lamps, decorating your home, doing charity, and donating to the needy and the underprivileged.

Milad Un Nabi Observances

Himachal Day

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Shaheed Diwas/Martyrdom

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Govardhan Puja

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