ISLAMABAD: Eid Milad-un-Nabi (PBUH) is being observed across Pakistan on Wednesday, August 26, with religious gatherings, processions, special prayers and Seerat-un-Nabi conferences held in cities across the country.
The government has declared August 26 a public holiday on the occasion of 12th Rabi-ul-Awwal, 1448 AH.
The day began with a 31-gun salute in Islamabad and 21-gun salutes in the provincial capitals. Special prayers were offered after Fajr for peace, prosperity and unity among Muslims.
Streets, roads, mosques, public buildings and homes have been decorated with green flags, buntings and lights. Milad processions are being organised by religious organisations, Milad committees and community groups in various cities.
How Is Eid Milad-un-Nabi Being Observed Across Pakistan?
Mahafil-e-Milad, religious conferences and other programmes are being held across the country, with scholars and speakers discussing the life and teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
People are also distributing sweets and food in neighbourhoods, markets and orphanages as part of the celebrations.
Security arrangements have been strengthened in several areas where large processions and gatherings are taking place.
What Did President Zardari and PM Shehbaz Say?
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif extended greetings to the nation and the Muslim Ummah on the occasion.
In separate messages, both leaders urged young people to draw guidance from the Seerat of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and emphasised moral character, hard work and service to humanity.
President Zardari said the occasion highlighted the Prophet’s message of faith, justice, mercy and noble character. He called for greater justice, tolerance, inter-sectarian and interfaith harmony and protection of human dignity.
Prime Minister Shehbaz said the country could address its economic, social and moral challenges by following the teachings and guidance of Islam.
What Is Happening at the Seerat-un-Nabi Conference?
An International Seerat-un-Nabi Conference is being held in Islamabad under the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony.
The conference is focused on “Protection, Development and Character Building of the Younger Generation in the Light of Seerat-un-Nabi (PBUH).”
Religious scholars, researchers, academics, parliamentarians, diplomats, government officials and other participants from Pakistan and other Islamic countries are attending the event.
Speakers are presenting papers and recommendations on the life and teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), with discussions focused on their application to contemporary challenges and national life.
What Did the National Assembly Say?
The National Assembly has called for nationwide programmes to mark Eid Milad-un-Nabi and urged federal and provincial governments to facilitate celebrations.
A resolution unanimously passed by the House called for the illumination and decoration of highways and roads and encouraged government, educational, business and media organisations to participate in the celebrations.
The resolution also called for promoting peace, tolerance and brotherhood in accordance with the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).