Id-e-Milad, or Eid-e-Milad or Mawlid, is one of the most important celebrations for Muslims across the world. It is the day when Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) was born and falls on 12th Rabi al-Awwal, the third month of the Islamic calendar. Prayers and festivities mark the birth anniversary of the Prophet. On this day, his teachings, guidance and the way he led his life are remembered and reflected upon.
Id-e-Milad 2025 – Date & Timings
| Date (2025) | Notes |
|---|---|
| Friday, 5 September 2025 | Celebrated in many regions based on local moon sighting; corresponds to 12 Rabi al-Awwal. |
| Saturday, 6 September 2025 | Observed in some regions where the moon is sighted later; still falls on 12 Rabi al-Awwal in the Islamic calendar. |
The Islamic calendar is a lunar calendar, and the exact day of the celebration depends on the sighting of the moon. Eid-e-Milad can be celebrated on either the 5th or 6th of September, 2025. However, according to the lunar calendar, it is celebrated on the 12th of the third month, Rabi al-Awwal.
Also, since most sects of the Islamic community follow the sighting of the moon to celebrate the festival, regional variations are common. It might be celebrated on different dates in parts of the world, because different parts of the world can see the moon at different times.
Moreover, the main overarching elements of the celebrations remain the same; however, a few regional differences can be noted. Also, since there are several sects in Islam, there are slight variations in celebrations not only regionally, but also within the communities.
History of Id-e-Milad
The celebrations of Id-e-Milad, according to some sources, were started by the Fatimids. The first official festivity took place in Egypt and later became popular in different parts of the world. During the 11th century, the ruling Shia dynasty in Egypt celebrated Id-e-Milad, but by the 12th century, it spread to other countries, such as Syria, Turkey, Morocco and Spain. The Sunni sects, too, started observing the day soon after.
In some sources, the history of the celebrations dates back to the beginning of Islam, where the Tabiun (followers) of the Prophet began to compose poetry in honour of the Prophet. The celebrations were continued by the Fatimids and other sects of the religion. The Ottomans, while under the rule of Murad III declared Id-e-Milad as an official holiday.
In India, the festivities became prominent during the time of Muslim rulers. Cities, such as Lucknow and Hyderabad, were known for their grand celebrations, which included gatherings, recitation of prayers, processions and feasts. Today, in many regions of India, Id-e-Milad is celebrated with much enthusiasm and excitement. Especially in states with large Muslim populations, such as Uttar Pradesh, Telangana, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Kerala and West Bengal.
Significance of Id-e-Milad
Islam, over the years, has been seen through different lenses and undergone scrutiny due to various geopolitical and social factors. However, the roots of the religion lie in the teachings of the Prophet and the Quran. If interpreted and understood correctly, Islam propagates peace, unity, patriotism and brotherhood. There is no better day to remember the true tenets of Islam than on the day the Prophet or Messenger of God was born.
Id-e-Milad is a religiously important festival for Muslims, since it is the birthday of the Prophet. But the significance of the festival goes beyond religion alone. His teachings, exemplified by the way he led his own life, along with the ‘hadees’ or his sayings are the cornerstone of values and virtues that Muslims abide by.
The festival is also a symbol of unity, devotion and community spirit. The community comes together to celebrate the birth anniversary of their religious, spiritual and much-loved leader. It is also a day that celebrates unity and togetherness, as not only members of the community, but also others, come together to be inspired by the teachings, guidance and the impact of one of the most important figures in spiritual history.
How Id-e-Milad is Celebrated?
Id-e-Milad is celebrated with much fervour in different parts of the world. Though there are slight variations across regions and sects, the overall happiness and celebratory sentiments are the same. Homes and mosques are often lighted and decorated. There are banners and sometimes green flags that are put up on buildings. Prayers, sermons, recitation of the Quran, poetry and hadees are done in mosques or in homes. Communities take out processions and traditional dishes are cooked for families and friends to meet up and enjoy.
Also, charity and donations are given a significant importance during this festival. Sweets and food is distributed to the needy, so that no one is left out in the celebrations.
Id-e-Milad 2025 in India
Milad un Nabi is a gazetted holiday in India. It is not a national holiday in all states of the country. However, some of the states where it is observed as a state or public holiday are, Maharashtra, Karanataka, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, West Bengal, Kerala etc.
Most states or regions that have a sizeable population of Muslims, celebrate Id-e-Milad. The decorations and festivities are also a way for others to understand and acknowledge the culture of the Muslim community. Since long, the secular environment of India has been the fundamental on which the country continues to thrive. Though there have been mishaps and flare ups, the goal is to make sure that people of all religions, caste, creed and class find an equal footing and respect in society. Id-e-Milad, is hence, a celebration of the values and teachings preached by the Prophet. In fact, one of his most popular teachings is that – To love one’s country is a part of faith. Keeping this love of the nation in their hearts, Muslims and people of all other religions, celebrate the Prophet on Id-e-Milad.
How Id-e-Milad is Celebrated in India
There are no strict step-by-step celebrations that are followed during Id-e-Milad. It is more of a universal feeling of happiness and togetherness. However, here is summary of how the festival is celebrated:
- Homes are cleaned and preparations for the festival, such as buying new clothes and gifts are made.
- Banners, lights and flags decorate homes and buildings.
- Night long prayers are said on the eve of Milad.
- Processions and parades are held.
- Certain communities perform the Sandal Rites which pay respect to the symbolic footprints of the Prophet.
- Sermons, recitation of Quran and prayers are held in mosques
- Community meals are organized or delicious meals are cooked and shared in homes too.
- Exhibitions of photos, videos and banners of the Holy cities of Medina and Mecca are sometimes displayed.
- Food is distributed and donations are made to the needy.
Takeways
Finally, Id-e-Milad is an important celebration for the Muslim community. But it is also a reminder of secular and communal bonhomie. In a country that is proud of its religious, regional and cultural diversifications, the celebration of one festival feels like a celebration of and for all. It is also a celebration of compassion, generosity, and unity, values that the Prophet himself embodied.
FAQs on Id-e-Milad 2025
