BAKRID 2023 Festival in India

Bakrid also known as Eid ul adha or Eid ul Zuha in Arabic is the “festival of sacrifice” celebrated prominently amongst the Muslims. This festival is a significant Islamic holiday celebrated worldwide. It marks the end of the annual Hajj pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca. According to tradition, Allah told Ibrahim in a dream to build the Kaaba, Mecca's most sacred shrine, and sacrifice what is dearest to him in order to test him as an act of loyalty to Allah. And it commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son Isma'il. However, God intervened and provided him with a ram to sacrifice instead and Prophet Ibrahim's devotion and obedience were rewarded. This festival falls on the tenth day of Dhu al-Hijjah, the twelfth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and lasts for four Days.

Bakrid Date:

In 2023, Bakrid festival will begin on the evening of 28th June 2023 and last till the evening of 30th June 2023.

Why is Bakrid Celebrated?

As per the ancient stories of Bakrid known worldwide, it is believed that nearly 4000 years ago, the great Prophet Ibrahim received a command from Allah in his dreams to sacrifice something he loved the most. He could only think of his son as he loved him the most, thus he decided to sacrifice him to obey the commands of Allah. Ibrahim and Isma'il set off for Mina to make the sacrifice. As they traveled, the devil tried to lead Ibrahim astray by tempting him to disobey God and not sacrifice his beloved son. But Ibrahim stayed firm in his belief and faithful to God, driving the demon away. During the process, he decided to blindfold himself as seeing his son would not let him obey the orders of Allah. Just as he was about to sacrifice his son, Allah intervened and provided him with a ram (sheep) to sacrifice instead and Prophet Ibrahim's devotion and obedience were rewarded.

To commemorate this story, Muslims celebrate bakrid festival every year all around the world. Herein they offer an animal sacrifice such as a goat or sheep, as a symbol of obedience and submission to Allah. The meat from the sacrifice is divided into three parts, one part is given to the poor or needy, the second part is distributed amongst friends and family, and the third part is kept for personal use.

The Traditional Way to Celebrate Bakrid Festival

Bakrid or Eid ul Adha is a time for Muslims to come together with families and friends to celebrate and give thanks to Allah for his blessings. The day begins with offering prayer to Allah in the congregations at the mosque or the designated prayer locations, followed by the sacrifice of an animal, generally a goat or a sheep, and distribution of the meat to family, friends, and the less fortunate.  Families dress up in their neat and clean clothes to visit their friends and family, prepare delicious food, including biryani, kebabs, and sweets, and shared with family, friends, and neighbors.

Muslims consider this time of the year to reflect on the importance of sacrifice in life.

As per the traditions of Muslim mythology, they are encouraged to sacrifice their wealth, time, and other resources for the blessings of Allah and to help those in need. This festival is a reminder of the values of faith, humility, and selflessness which are integral to Islamic beliefs.

Rituals of Bakrid

Amidst the events of the festival taking place, elders of the family ensure to impart knowledge of traditions and history along with the significance of the festival to the children. The common rituals followed traditionally in all the families are mentioned here:

• Attend Eid prayers: Muslims generally begin their day by offering prayers to Allah in their local mosque or outdoor praying spaces. The prayers take place early in the morning, involving a sermon followed by a congregational prayer.

• Donation to charity: Following one of the integral beliefs of Eid ul Adha, generosity, Muslims are encouraged to give to charity. Donation to any local nearby charity that supports or helps the poor or the needy is a beautiful way to celebrate the festival.

• Sacrifice: The Muslims perform the sacrificial ritual during Eid ul Adha involving the slaughtering of an animal either a goat or sheep. The sacrificed meat is then divided into three parts one for the needy, second for friends and family, and third for personal use.

• Quality time with family and friends: Festivals are the most appropriate time to spend with family and friends and enjoy the occasion. After wishing “Bakrid Mubarak” or “Happy Bakrid” to the family and exchanging gifts, families can plan activities or outings to celebrate the bakrid festival together.

• Special cuisines: The houses are filled with the aroma of savouring dishes prepared to celebrate the important festival in the Islamic community. The special cuisines prepared for the day are devoured by the families with fulfilling emotions in their hearts.

• Clothes: Neat and clean / new clothes are a must for every festival no matter who is celebrating. Getting dressed gives off a whole different level of happiness and celebration feels to people.

Bakrid Wishes; How to Wish for Bakrid?

Bakrid, also known as Eid ul Adha, is an important celebration in the Islamic religion, and greetings and wishes are traditionally exchanged with loved ones on this occasion.

Here are some ways to wish for Bakrid:

"Eid Mubarak!" - This is a common greeting used during Bakrid, which means "Blessed Eid!" It is a simple and traditional way to wish someone on this occasion.

"May Allah's blessings be with you today, tomorrow, and always. Eid Mubarak!" - This is a heartfelt wish that conveys your sincere desire for Allah's blessings to be with the person you are wishing.

"Wishing you a joyous celebration and shower of Allah's blessings. Eid Mubarak!" - This is a warm and cheerful wish that expresses your hope for the person to have a happy and blessed Bakrid.

"May the divine blessings of Allah bring you hope, faith, and joy on Eid ul Adha and forever. Happy Bakrid!" - This is a more elaborate wish that conveys your desire for the person to experience the fullness of Allah's blessings not just on Bakrid but in their life.

Overall, Muslim’s generally wish each other by hugging and wishing “Bakrid Mubarak” or “Eid Mubarak”. The significance of this gesture is a feeling of warmth, closeness, and hospitality among them.

Conclusion

The festive tone of the Eid ul Adha or Bakrid is enjoyed by all the people in the community all over the world. The celebrations continue for two to three days through prayers and feasts. Bakrid is a time for Muslims to come together, express gratitude to God, and show compassion towards others. It is a festival that celebrates the values of devotion, sacrifice, and brotherhood, and it is a reminder of the importance of living a life of faith and service. As we celebrate Bakrid 2023, let us remember the spirit of the festival and strive to embody its values in our daily lives. 

Vedantu extends warm wishes to you on this auspicious occasion. May the blessings of Eid ul Adha be with you and your loved ones!