Bakri-Id (Eid al-Adha) in India

Bakri-Id, also referred to as the 'Festival of Sacrifice', is a yearly celebration observed by Muslims worldwide. This festival honours the sacrifice made by Prophet Ibrahim of his son and signifies the conclusion of the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca. It is also known as Eid al Adha.

Key traditions on this day in India include distributing meat to relatives and reciting the takbir. The festival occurs in the twelfth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, specifically on the tenth day of Dhu al-Hijjah.

Why is Bakra Eid Celebrated?

Bakra Eid is celebrated to honour the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son, Ismail, as an act of obedience to God's command. According to Islamic tradition, just as Ibrahim was about to sacrifice his son, God intervened and provided a ram to sacrifice instead. This event signifies faith, obedience, and devotion to God.

The festival also marks the end of the Hajj pilgrimage, a journey to the holy city of Mecca that Muslims are expected to undertake at least once in their lifetime.

How is the Eid al Adha Holiday Celebrated?

Sacrifice, known as Qurbani, is central to Bakrid. Following the Eid prayers, the sacrifice of goats and sheep is performed, and the meat is divided into three portions: one for the family, another for friends, neighbours, and relatives, and the remainder is donated to the poor. This practice highlights the importance of charity and sharing in the Islamic tradition.

Friends and family come together to share joyful "Eid Mubarak" greetings and celebrate with warm visits and shared meals. The day is filled with delicious feasts and special dishes made just for Bakri Eid as everyone joins in the festivities and exchanges thoughtful gifts.

About Bakrid

Bakra Eid in India is celebrated very vibrantly. Food plays a crucial role in this festival. For the Muslim community, Eid al-Adha in India is a particularly special occasion with plenty of culinary delights.

The festival occurs after 10 days of fasting during the Hajj season. Before the Eid prayers, people usually eat light. Women in Muslim households start preparing various delicacies, such as mutton biryani, early in the morning. The meat from the sacrificed animal is often used to make a side dish.

Sweets like shahi tukda, firni, kheer, and sevai are essential parts of the Eid al-Adha meal. The colour, taste, and preparation of these sweets vary by region. The meat dishes and sevai are typically enjoyed for the next three to four days.

Bakra Eid In India- Places To Witness The Holiness

Eid al Adha in India is celebrated all over with great enthusiasm. Let's take a look at some of the most beautiful places where Bakrid is celebrated:

1. New Delhi:
   New Delhi showcases enduring traces of Mughal influence, making it a vibrant hub for celebrating Muslim festivals like Bakri Eid. Every year, Jama Masjid becomes a focal point as thousands gather to offer prayers. In Old Delhi, the streets come alive with the aroma of delicious delicacies, drawing visitors from across the city to savour the festive atmosphere.

2. Srinagar:
   In Srinagar, the capital city of Jammu and Kashmir, Eid al-Adha transforms the landscape with its spirited celebrations. At the historic Eidgah and Aasar-E-Shareef Hazratbal, devotees gather for special prayers. Jamia Masjid and Pathar Masjid are also bustling with activity while shopping districts such as Goni Market and Lal Chowk bustle with shoppers seeking gifts for loved ones.

3. Lucknow:
   Known as the 'City of Nawabs,' Lucknow embraces its rich Islamic heritage during Eid al-Adha. The Asifi Masjid and Aishbagh Eidgah witness a large turnout for prayers, accompanied by a feast of delectable kebabs and biryanis from local food stalls.

4. Hyderabad:
   Hyderabad, the 'City of Nizams,' resonates with fervour during Bakri Eid. At Charminar, worshippers gather for prayers and indulge in the culinary delights available nearby. Secunderabad, Madannapet, and Masab Tank also buzz with festivities as people come together to celebrate.

5. Mumbai:
   Mumbai joins the celebration of Eid al-Adha with equal enthusiasm. Mosques like Minara Masjid and Haji Ali Dargah overflow with devotees offering prayers. Mohammad Ali Road becomes a culinary paradise with its array of dishes, including biryani, paya, bhuna gosht, and sevai, adding to the festive spirit of Bakri Eid.

When is Bakrid 2024?

Eid al Adha 2024 falls on the 17th of June, i.e. Monday. It is usually a gazetted holiday in educational institutions and banks.

Occasion	Date and Day	States
Bakra Eid	17th June, Monday	New Delhi, Srinagar, Hyderabad, Lucknow, Mumbai

Occasion	Date and Day	States
Bakra Eid	17th June, Monday	New Delhi, Srinagar, Hyderabad, Lucknow, Mumbai

Offering Reverence to The Sacrificial Prophet

Bakrid isn't just a festival; it's a profound expression of faith, community, and charity. Celebrated with great enthusiasm across India, it brings together families and friends to honour Prophet Ibrahim's sacrifice.

With special prayers, sumptuous feasts, and acts of giving, Bakrid is a time for joy and reflection. Let us embrace the spirit of compassion and unity that defines Eid al-Adha.

Frequently Asked Questions