All the festivals that weave the rich tapestry of India’s cultural and religious diversity, Eid-e-Milad, or Milad un-Nabi, stands out as a day of profound reverence, reflection, and vibrant celebration. It is a moment when millions of Muslims across the subcontinent commemorate the birth and life of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him), the last messenger of Allah. This day is a bank holiday in many states.
Bank Holiday 5 September
These states where there is a bank holiday on September 5 celebrate the Eid-e-Milad festival.
- Gujarat
- Karnatak
- Madhya Pradesh
- Tamila Nadu
- Telangana
- Uttar Pradesh
- New Delhi
- Keral
When is Eid-e-Milad Celebrated 2025 ?
The date of Milad un-Nabi falls on the 12th day of Rabi’ al-Awwal, the third month of the Islamic lunar calendar. Because the Islamic calendar is based on the moon cycle, the date shifts in the Gregorian calendar each year.
In 2025, Eid-e-Milad is tentatively expected to be observed on Friday, September 5th.
The Significance of Milad
The word ‘Milad’ literally means birth, and the day is a celebration of the Prophet Muhammad’s arrival in Mecca in 570 CE. However, it is also a day of reflection, as the Prophet’s passing is also believed to have occurred on the same date.
For believers, this day holds immense significance as it serves as a powerful reminder of the Prophet’s teachings, which form the bedrock of Islam:
- Compassion and Mercy: Emulating the Prophet’s life of forgiveness and kindness towards all beings.
- Social Justice: Renewing commitment to the principles of equality and justice for the poor and needy.
- Charity and Generosity: Practicing acts of giving (Zakat and Sadaqah) to help the less fortunate.
A Tapestry of Unity
Eid-e-Milad in India is more than just a public holiday; it is a profound cultural moment that reflects the syncretic and unified spirit of the nation.22 It is a day when the message of Prophet Muhammad—of kindness, human dignity, and compassion—is renewed and celebrated, bringing families, communities, and generations closer together.
Wishing everyone a blessed and peaceful Eid-e-Milad!
