Muslims across the State observed Eid Milad-un-Nabi, the birthday of Prophet Mohammed with great joy and devotion on Tuesday. The Prophet also passed away the same date after completing his mission.
Muslims from all walks of life visited mosques and shrines to participate in special prayers. Public meetings, rallies, feeding of the poor, ‘mehfil-e-milad’ and special gatherings in praise of the Prophet were held to mark the occasion.
Religious scholars and community leaders exhorted Muslims to strictly follow ‘seerat-e-tayyaba’ or the holy life of the Prophet for success in this world and the hereafter.
Several devotees took part in the procession taken out on the occasion by All India Muslim Tehwar Committee from Itwara in the State capital. The procession after passing through the main routes of the city culminated at Imami Gate.
Home and Jail Minister Babulal Gaur flagged off procession of Milad-un-Nabi near Mangalwara police station. MP Kailash Joshi, local public representatives and citizens were present on the occasion. Gaur was the chief guest on the occasion, while Bhopal MP Kailash Joshi and chairman Bhopal Municipal Corporation Kailash Mishra were especially present on the occasion. All India Muslim Personal law Board member and former Madhya Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) spokesman Arif Masood presided over the programme.
The festivities started from Monday night as mosques and markets were illuminated. Bhopal police made special security arrangements for the occasion.
The Muslim-majority old city echoed with religious slogans as groups of motorcycle-borne youths took out processions. The old city was decked up for the occasion with huge green flags.
Flags were seen on buildings, traffic signals, lamp posts and other high-rise structures across the old city. 'Naat-e-shareef' or poems in praise of the Prophet were played on loudspeakers.
Feeding of the poor was organised by individuals, traders' associations and religious and social organisations at several places in the old city to mark the occasion. Muslims also celebrated the day with special dishes, including sweets, at their homes.
Birthday of Prophet Mohammad falls in the Rabi’ al-awwal, the third month in the Islamic lunar Calendar. It is believed that on this day, the 12th of Rabiul - Awal of the Hijri calendar, the Prophet was born with Divine blessings and message of peace for human kind. The Prophet also passed away the same date after completing his mission.