Milad-un-Nabi 2024: A Celebration of the Prophet Muhammad’s Birth

Milad-un-Nabi, also known as Mawlid or Eid-e-Milad, is the Islamic festival commemorating the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad. According to the Islamic calendar, this event is observed on the 12th day of the third month, Rabi’ al-Awwal. This year, the celebrations will begin on the evening of Sunday, September 15, and continue until Monday, September 16.

In India, the occasion will see a public holiday in various states. According to a press release from the Reserve Bank of India dated September 14, the Government of Maharashtra initially declared a public holiday on September 16, 2024, as per the Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881. However, this has been cancelled and rescheduled to September 18, 2024.

The day holds significant spiritual importance for Muslims worldwide, as it marks not only the Prophet’s birthday in 570 CE in Mecca but also his death on the same date. The occasion is a time for Muslims to reflect on his teachings and renew their commitment to living according to principles of kindness, compassion, and faith, which he advocated.

This celebration is particularly prominent in the Sufi tradition of Sunni Islam, and is also observed by many Shia Muslims. Prominent religious sites in India, such as the Haji Ali Dargah, Jama Masjid, Nizamuddin Aulia, and Ajmer Sharif, will draw large numbers of devotees on this auspicious day.

Muslims commemorate Milad-un-Nabi by offering prayers and sermons. They engage in acts of charity, make donations, and decorate their homes, mosques, and streets with colorful lights and green flags. It is a time for communities to come together in celebration and reflection.

While it is a widely celebrated festival, some Islamic scholars view it as non-obligatory. Nonetheless, the day underscores the continued relevance of the Prophet’s spiritual legacy, emphasizing values such as peace, compassion, and community solidarity.