Bakrid, also recognized as Eid-ul-Adha, holds immense importance for Muslims worldwide. This festival pays homage to the profound devotion of Prophet Ibrahim, who was willing to sacrifice his son as a testament to his commitment to Allah.

Marking the conclusion of the annual Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca, Bakrid is observed through the distribution of meat and the offering of prayers. According to legend, Allah, recognizing Ibrahim's unwavering devotion, sent the angel Jibril or Gabriel to substitute a goat for Ibrahim's son. Bakrid is celebrated approximately 70 days after the conclusion of the holy month of Ramadan.

Date of Celebration

The date of Bakrid varies each year as it is based on the Islamic lunar calendar. It falls on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic calendar, and is celebrated approximately 70 days after Eid al-Fitr (the festival at the end of Ramadan). In India, Bakrid is typically observed by Muslims with great enthusiasm and devotion.

Historical Significance

The festival has its roots in the story of Prophet Ibrahim, who was commanded by God in a dream to sacrifice his beloved son, Ismail (Ishmael). Demonstrating unwavering faith, Ibrahim agreed to make the sacrifice. However, before he could complete the act, God intervened and provided a ram to be sacrificed instead. This act of sacrifice symbolizes Ibrahim's obedience and devotion to God, and it is commemorated by Muslims worldwide as a reminder of the importance of faith, sacrifice, and charity.

Religious Observances

Bakrid is a deeply religious festival, and Muslims in India observe it with a series of rituals and traditions that are both spiritual and communal in nature:

1. Morning Prayers (Salat al-Eid):

   • The day begins with special prayers held in large congregations, usually at mosques, open grounds, or Eidgahs (designated prayer areas). The prayers, known as Salat al-Eid, are offered early in the morning and are typically followed by a sermon.
   • Worshippers wear their finest clothes, often new or traditional garments, to mark the occasion.

2. Sacrifice (Qurbani):

   • The most important ritual of Bakrid is the sacrifice of an animal, which represents Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son. Depending on the region and local customs, a goat, sheep, cow, or camel may be sacrificed.
   • The animal is sacrificed following Islamic guidelines, and the meat is divided into three parts: one-third is given to the poor and needy, one-third is shared with relatives and friends, and the remaining portion is kept for the family.

3. Charity and Generosity:

   • An essential aspect of Bakrid is the emphasis on charity. Giving to the poor and helping those in need is a fundamental part of the festival. Distributing meat to the less fortunate ensures that they too can partake in the celebrations and have access to a nutritious meal.
   • Zakat (obligatory alms-giving) and Sadaqah (voluntary charity) are also encouraged during this time.

4. Feasts and Gatherings:

   • Lavish feasts are prepared during Bakrid, with dishes made from the sacrificed meat. Popular dishes include biryani, kebabs, nihari, haleem, and various curries. Families and friends gather to share meals, celebrate, and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
   • Sweet dishes like sheer khurma and sewaiyan (vermicelli pudding) are also popular desserts served during the festival.

Cultural Observances in India

While Bakrid is primarily a religious festival, it also has significant cultural and social aspects, particularly in India, where Muslims celebrate with a blend of faith and local traditions. The festival fosters unity, harmony, and brotherhood among different communities.

1. Interfaith Relations:

   • In many parts of India, Bakrid is an occasion for fostering interfaith harmony. Non-Muslim friends and neighbors are often invited to participate in the feasts, and greetings of "Eid Mubarak" are exchanged.
   • The festival serves as a reminder of the shared values of charity, compassion, and generosity across different faiths.

2. Market Activity:

   • In the days leading up to Bakrid, there is significant activity in markets, with people shopping for new clothes, gifts, and items for the festival.
   • Livestock markets become especially busy, as families select animals for sacrifice.

3. Festive Atmosphere:

   • The festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm in Muslim-majority areas. Streets and homes are decorated, and the atmosphere is filled with joy, prayers, and celebrations.
   • Public holidays are declared in many states, allowing people to fully participate in the religious and social activities of the day.

Messages and Values of Bakrid

Bakrid is a festival rich in symbolism and meaning. Some of the core values it conveys include:

1. Obedience to God: The central story of Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son highlights the importance of obeying God's commands, even when they are difficult or challenging.

2. Sacrifice and Selflessness: The act of sacrifice represents the need for selflessness and the willingness to give up something valuable for a higher purpose or for the well-being of others.

3. Charity and Compassion: The festival emphasizes the duty to care for the less fortunate and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to enjoy the blessings of life.

4. Unity and Community: Bakrid brings together families, friends, and communities to celebrate, share, and enjoy the blessings of the day. It fosters a sense of brotherhood and unity among Muslims and across different faiths in India.

Bakrid in Different Parts of India

The manner in which Bakrid is celebrated can vary slightly across different regions of India, but the core practices remain the same. Major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Lucknow, Kolkata, and Srinagar witness large congregations for prayers and celebrations.

• In Hyderabad, Bakrid is celebrated with great enthusiasm, with large feasts and a festive atmosphere throughout the city.
• In Kashmir, special prayers are offered in mosques, and the festival is marked by traditional Kashmiri dishes and a strong sense of community.
• In Kerala, where there is a significant Muslim population, Bakrid is celebrated with both religious devotion and cultural festivity, including the preparation of unique Malabar cuisine.

Public Holiday

Bakrid is a national public holiday in India, allowing Muslims to take part in the religious observances and celebrations. Government offices, schools, and businesses remain closed on this day, except for essential services.

Conclusion

Bakrid is one of the most significant Islamic festivals celebrated in India, marking a time of spiritual devotion, sacrifice, and communal harmony. The festival encourages Muslims to reflect on the values of faith, obedience, charity, and compassion, while also fostering a spirit of generosity and unity within the broader Indian society. Through prayers, feasts, and acts of kindness, Bakrid serves as a reminder of the shared bonds of humanity and the importance of selflessness and devotion to God.