ISLAMABAD: Muslims across Pakistan are observing Eid Milad-un-Nabi (peace be upon him), today with religious fervour and solemnity, with prayers, processions and special programmes being held to commemorate the birth of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
The day began with a 31-gun salute in Islamabad and 21-gun salutes at the provincial capitals, while special prayers were offered after Fajr for the unity of the Muslim Ummah and the peace, progress and prosperity of Pakistan.
The government has declared August 26 a public holiday across the country on the occasion of 12th Rabi-ul-Awwal, 1448 AH with the Sindh government also observing a public holiday today.
Streets, roads, buildings, mosques and homes have been decorated with green buntings, flags and colourful lights as people mark the occasion with religious devotion.
Milad processions are being held in cities across the country, with religious scholars and speakers highlighting different aspects of the life and teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and urging people to follow his Sunnah.
As part of the day’s rituals, people are distributing sweets and food in markets, orphanages and neighbourhoods, reflecting the spirit of charity associated with the blessed occasion.
Seerat-un-Nabi conference in Islamabad
The main official event is an International Seerat-un-Nabi Conference being held in Islamabad under the auspices of the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony.
This year’s conference is focused on “Protection, Development and Character Building of the Younger Generation in the Light of Seerat-un-Nabi (PBUH)”.
Religious scholars, intellectuals, researchers, university professors, parliamentarians, diplomats, government officials, media representatives and other prominent figures from Pakistan and various Islamic countries are taking part in the event.
Academic papers, recommendations and practical proposals are being presented on different aspects of the holy Prophet’s (peace be upon him) life and teachings, with a focus on applying them to national life and contemporary challenges.
National call for unity and tolerance
The National Assembly, in yesterday’s session, has also called for Eid Milad-un-Nabi to be marked through national-level programmes and urged federal and provincial governments to ensure widespread participation in the celebrations.
A resolution unanimously passed by the House called for the illumination and decoration of highways and roads and urged government, educational and business institutions, as well as media organisations, to participate in the celebrations.
The resolution also called for the promotion of peace, tolerance and brotherhood in accordance with the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
It urged the nation to observe the occasion with devotion, respect and unity while renewing its commitment to the Prophet’s teachings and Sunnah.
Eid Milad-un-Nabi is observed by Muslims in Pakistan and around the world on 12th Rabi-ul-Awwal, the third month of the Islamic lunar calendar. The occasion is marked by prayers, charity and gatherings centred on the life and teachings of the Prophet, who was sent as a blessing for all humanity.
