Eid Milad-un-Nabi Celebrations: History and traditions in the Sufi and Barelvi communities
Sufi or Barelvi school of thought are commemorating the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad as Eid Milad-un-Nabi, also known as Eid-e-Milad. This celebration takes place during the third month of the Islamic calendar, Rabi’ al-awwal.
The start of Rabi’ al-awwal in countries like India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and other parts of the subcontinent is traditionally signaled by the sighting of the crescent moon in October.
This year, the moon was sighted on October 18, making October 19 the first day of Rabi ul Awwal in the Gregorian calendar.
However, it's worth noting that not all segments of the Muslim community partake in these celebrations. Some argue that Islamic culture does not permit the celebration of Prophet Mohammad's birthday, considering it a form of innovation (biddah) contrary to the teachings of the Holy Quran and Sunnah.
Muslims following the Salafi and Wahhabi schools of thought share this viewpoint, contending that the celebration of Eid-e-Milad or Mawlid is an innovation as there is no historical evidence of such celebrations during the era of Prophet Mohammad or his appointed successors.
In the Islamic lunar calendar, Sunni Muslims celebrate Eid-e-Milad on the 12th day of Rabi’ al-awwal, while the Shia community observes it on the 17th of the same month.
This year, Eid-e-Milad is celebrated on September 27 in Saudi Arabia and on September 28 in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and other parts of the subcontinent.
The origins of this celebration trace back to the early Rashidun Caliphs, with the concept being introduced by the Fatimids. Some believe that Prophet Muhammad was born in Mecca on the twelfth day of Rabi’ al-awwal in 570 CE.
