Id-e-Milad (Mawlid) 2025 - Prophet’s Birthday Date & Significance

History and Significance of Id-e-Milad 

The 12th of Rabi' al-Awwal was initially observed as a day of mourning for the Prophet Muhammad's death in 632 CE. During this period, the day focused on reflecting on the Prophet’s loss rather than celebrating his birth. In the 13th century, the observance of the 12th of Rabi' al-Awwal shifted from mourning to celebrating the Prophet's birth. This change marked a new way to honour his life and teachings, moving from sadness to celebration. 

The Fatimid Caliphate in the 10th century formalised Id-e-Milad as a celebration. The Fatimids, a Shia dynasty, began observing the day with public gatherings, prayers, and poetry praising the Prophet. This official recognition helped popularise the celebration across the Islamic world.  

Id-e-Milad evolved from a regional event to a widespread observance. Over time, it included processions, charity, and communal meals. It became a time for Muslims to reflect on the Prophet’s teachings and strengthen community bonds. 

Today, Id-e-Milad is celebrated with enthusiasm worldwide. Observance varies by culture. It may include grand processions, recitations of the Prophet's life, and special prayers, or more private family gatherings. The celebration serves as a reminder of the Prophet Muhammad’s impact and provides an opportunity to renew commitment to his teachings. 

How Shias and Sunnis Celebrate Id-e-Milad 

Both Shia and Sunni Muslims celebrate Id-e-Milad with acts of charity and kindness, reflecting the Prophet Muhammad’s teachings on generosity. Community service, such as distributing food and providing financial assistance, is a shared practice. Special meals and sweets are enjoyed by families and communities, offering a chance to celebrate together. Additionally, both traditions place emphasis on reflection and education through religious gatherings, where the life and significance of the Prophet are discussed. Special prayers are performed in both communities to seek blessings and express devotion. 

Sunnis often mark Id-e-Milad with the recitation of nasheeds, singing devotional songs praising the Prophet, and decorate mosques with lights and banners to create a festive atmosphere. Islamic lectures are held to educate the community about the Prophet’s life and teachings. In contrast, Shias organise religious gatherings where eulogies and elegies are recited, reflecting both celebration and mourning. Candle processions are a distinctive Shia practice, symbolising light and guidance, and are accompanied by chanting and recitations.

Best Places to Visit During Id-e-Milad

India has a list of beautiful destinations that are extremely special for the festival of Id-e-Milad. The rich can travel abroad to celebrate the festival. If you are staying near the city of Delhi, consider visiting this city to experience the real celebration of Id-e-Milad. The people, who are residing in the city of Mumbai, have several destinations to visit during the festival of Id-e-Milad. If you are in search of the best destinations in Mumbai to celebrate Id-e-Milad 2025, you may visit the following destinations:

1. Haj House: It is a place where the meeting is held to discuss the birthday celebration of Prophet Muhammad.
2. Mohammed Ali Road: Mohammed Ali Road is very famous for shopping.
3. Minara Masjid: This masjid is fully decorated for this great festival. The people will visit this masjid in a big number.
4. Central Mumbai: One can watch big rallies stirring from one road to another. The people from all parts of the city will visit this place.

How is the Festival Celebrated?

1. Muslims clean their houses and streets. They also clean the mosques in their cities.
2. They will either visit the mosques around them or visit the common praying area in their cities.
3. Processions will be taken out by people who also shout praises about Prophet Muhammad.
4. Muslims will make their children attend the meetings wherein the teachings of Prophet Muhammad are discussed. Children keenly participate in all types of events organised on the occasion of Id-e-Milad.
5. Men prefer wearing Jubbhas while women prefer wearing Abayas. It is to show the complete devotion.
6. Muslims will sing in public places. Maulud is a popular song, which is sung by many Muslims to mark the festival. As per the culture of Islam, singing this song on the festival day carries good fortune.
7. Lectures: Lectures are conducted by religious speakers to spread the message of Prophet Muhammad.
8. Arts: The deeds and life of Prophet Muhammad shall be honored by writing essays and poems. The paintings, which are suitable for the festival of Id-e-Milad, are created by artists.

1. Friends, families and relatives will share sweets among themselves. The commonly distributed sweet is honey.

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