What's Mawlid al-Nabi? Here's How it's Celebrated.

October 18^th this year marks the birthday of the Prophet Muhammad PBUH in a celebration known as Mawlid an-Nabi, or milad.

Millions of Muslims across the world celebrate his birthday designating it as a national holiday. The celebration is sometimes also referred to Mawlid, Milad and Eid Milad un-Nabi.

Those who celebrate might decorate their houses, prepare special meal, and special speeches in mosques recounting the life of the prophet might be heard.

Mawlid al Nabi Date

Mawlid is commemorated on the 12th day of Rabi al-Awwal, the third month of the Islamic calendar, which equates to 19 October in 2021's Gregorian calendar. 

The date changes every year as the Islamic calendar follows the lunar cycle, it is ten to 11 days shorter than the Gregorian calendar.

Many of the rituals take place in a communal context, with worshippers gathering in mosques and community centres.

Do all Muslims celebrate it?

The occasion is neither obligatory or outlined in Islamic teachings, some choose not to celebrate it. Some also believe it is an unnecessary innovation, and therefore believe it is inappropriate to celebrate.

Others take Mawlid as an opportunity to learn about the prophet’s positive attributes and learn more about his teachings.

In Saudi Arabia and Qatar, the day is not an official holiday but individual citizens may mark the occasions depending on their religious perspectives.

Around the Middle East and North Africa, states including Algeria, Bahrain, Iraq, Kuwait and Yemen also designate the day as a public holiday.

In Western states where there are large Muslim population, gatherings and marches are often organised by local religious groups.