Pakistanis once more came together to honor one of the holiest occasions in Islam: Eid Milad un Nabi (PBUH), commemorating Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). With great reverence and enthusiasm, millions of Muslims across Pakistan joined together on this special day to reflect upon his teachings while renewing their commitment to his values of peace, compassion and justice.
Celebrated annually during Rabi-ul-Awwal (the third month of Islamic calendar), these festivities witnessed a nationwide display of unity and devotion from Karachi streets to Gilgit-Baltistan valleys adorned with colorful lights, banners and flags bearing his name; with air filled with poetry of praises being recited along with “Darood” (blessings) upon Muhammad (PBUH).
One of the highlights of the day was a procession by thousands of faithful in various cities such as Lahore, Islamabad and Multan waving flags and shouting slogans in honor of Prophet Mohammed (peace be upon him). These “Milad Juloos” included children, women and men dressed festively expressing their affection and reverence for this great leader of humanity. Musical bands often played alongside vehicles decorated with floral arrangements adding joyousness to this joyous event.
Government organizations joined with religious and social organizations in Pakistan in planning events to mark this important anniversary. Special prayers (duas) were offered in mosques and shrines around Pakistan with Muslims praying for peace, prosperity, and well-being for their nation and its Muslim Ummah (community). Additionally, Pakistan’s religious leaders encouraged followers of Islam to unite under one banner without regard for sectarian differences.
President Dr. Arif Alvi and Prime Minister Imran Khan both extended warm greetings to Pakistan on this auspicious occasion, calling upon Muslims to reflect on Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)’s teachings of tolerance, love, and empathy. President Alvi highlighted following in the footsteps of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) when dealing with hardship and ensuring justice; Prime Minister Khan highlighted Prophet’s dedication to social justice efforts and peace as core values that should guide Muslim communities today.
Religious scholars and leaders seized upon television and social media to present sermons and lectures about the life and legacy of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Their messages focused on deepening individual faith while contributing positively to society in accordance with his teachings. Institutions including schools also hosted special Milad un Nabi events highlighting moral and ethical values associated with his life through poetry recital and play productions that focused on moral and ethical principles that made up his life story.
This occasion also provided a forum for charitable acts, with individuals and organizations using this day to fulfill Prophet Mohammed’s teachings about charity and kindness by distributing food, clothes and other essential items to Pakistan’s underprivileged populations. These acts of generosity were seen as honoring his legacy while meeting the needs of Pakistan’s most vulnerable populations.
Eid Milad un Nabi this year was not only marked by traditional celebrations, but by an increased sense of resolve among Pakistanis. While facing challenges like economic difficulties, security threats, and political uncertainty, Pakistanians were reminded of the timeless message of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) – one of compassion, unity, and perseverance. Eid Milad un Nabi celebrations not only honored his birth but also sought to honor and uphold his message of peace and humanity with actions inspired by his legacy that continue to guide their actions throughout their daily lives.
Eid Milad un Nabi (PBUH) in Pakistan marked not just a day of celebration but also an opportunity for reflection and renewal. With love, reverence, and a profound spiritual bond between generations of Muslims across Pakistan coming together in love to remember and honor the life and teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), with this sacred event serving as an annual reminder of his values of love, tolerance, and justice that continue to serve as beacons of guidance today and into future generations.