Holy Eid-e-Miladunnabi being observed

Desk Report: The Muslims in Bangladesh and elsewhere across the world are observing Holy Eid-e-Miladunnabi today (Tuesday) commemorating the birth of Great Prophet Hazrat Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him).

The holy Eid-e-Miladunnabi is the day of birth and demise of the Prophet Hazrat Muhammad (PBUH). It is observed across the country and elsewhere in the Muslim World with due respect and religious fervor. Side by side, it is time to remember the teachings of the Prophet and follow the mission the Prophet dedicated all his life.

On this day in 570 AD, the 12th of Rabiul Awal of the Hizri calendar, Prophet Muhammad was born in Makkah in Saudi Arabia with divine blessings and messages of peace for mankind. He passed away on the same day in 632 AD.

The tradition of celebrating the Holy Prophet`s birthday on a large scale began in Egypt by the Prophet`s descendants, through his daughter Fatima. It was celebrated mainly by religious scholars and religious establishments. They gathered to hear sermons, distributed sweets, alms and particularly honey, the Prophet`s favourite.

On this day, believers gather to recite special prayers for thanksgiving to Allah for his favours and sending Prophet Muhammed to the world, with his message to guide the people. People attend lectures and recitations on the Life and Instructions of the Holy Prophet. Poetry or Naats are recited after prayers and sweets are distributed amongst the poor.

Those who observe Eid-e-Miladunnabi gatherings remember, discuss and celebrate the advent of the Prophet Muhammad and his teachings. Some people send Eid-e-Miladunnabi e-cards to friends and family. Many Sunni Muslims celebrate this event on the 12th of the Islamic month of Rabi` al-awwal, while the Shi`a community celebrates it on the 17th of Rabi` al-awwal.

Like previous years, different social, cultural, religious, spiritual and political organisations and different state-run organisations have chalked out programmes in the capital and elsewhere in the country marking the day.

Religious Affairs Minister Principal Matiur Rahman has inaugurated a 15-day programme coinciding with the Eid-e-Miladunnabi at the Baitul Mukarram National Mosque under the auspices of Islamic Foundation.

The fortnight programmes include delivery of religious sermons, seminars, exhibition of Islamic calligraphy and posters based on life of the Prophet, book fair, Islamic cultural competition and recitation of poetries on him.

Bangladesh Television, Bangladesh Betar and private television channels as well as radio stations are airing special programmes, while newspapers are set to publish supplements highlighting the significance of the day.

Listen a spiritual song on Holy Eid-e-Miladunnabi penned by prominent lyricist Mahbubul A Khalid.

On the occasion, President Abdul Hamid, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Opposition Leader Raushon Ershad and BNP chairperson Khaleda Zia issued separate messages greeting the countrymen and Muslims across the world.

In separate messages on the eve of the day, they underscored the need for following the ideals of the Prophet for peace and prosperity.

In his message, President Abdul Hamid said Allah had sent Hazrat Muhammad (PBUH) to this world as a blessing for the entire universe.

The Prophet has been successful to discharge his duty of establishing `tawhid` in the world with his efficiency, greatness, tolerance, hard work, devotion and limitless sufferings, he added.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, in her message, said Allah had sent Hazrat Muhammad (PBUH) as `Rahmatullil Alamin`.

The Prophet had emerged as the savior in the world filled with sinful acts, repression, falsehood, prejudice and conflicts, she added.

She expressed firm conviction that the peace and welfare could be ensured in the current turbulent world by following the ideals of the Prophet (PBUH).

Tight security measures have been taken across the country for peaceful observance of the day.

Different Islamic organisations are seen to take out peaceful processions carrying banners inscribed with “Kalema Taiyeba” in the capital Dhaka and elsewhere across the country and arrange competitions on Quran recitation and exhibitions of religious books.

Islamic Foundation Bangladesh has arranged various programmes highlighting the significance of the day.

Eid-e-Miladunnabi is a public holiday in Bangladesh. So, government offices, post offices and banks are closed on the day. Islamic stores, businesses and other organisations may be closed or have reduced opening hours.

risingbd/Dhaka/Dec 13, 2016/Amirul