Mawlid - The Celebration of Birth of Prophet Mohammad

Mawlid - The Celebration of Birth of Prophet Mohammad

Mawlid marks the celebration of the birth anniversary of the Islamic Prophet Muhammad celebrated in Rabi' al-awwal, that is the 3rd month in the Islamic calendar. But the observance of Mawlid is different for Shia and Sunnis.

Most of the Sunni scholars accept the 12th Rabi al-awwal; whereas, most of the Shias regard 17th Rabi al-awwal for the observance. It is being celebrated since a long period of time when some of the Tabi’s started to organize session combined with poems and songs to pay respect and tribute towards Prophet Mohammad. It is an honour to him. This day was declared as an official holiday by the Ottomand Turks. Mawlid is declared as a national holiday in most of the Islamic countries of the world except Saudi Arabia and Qatar. It is because they are officially Wahhabi or Salafi who strongly disapprove the celebration and treat it as an unnecessary religious activity that has no use. At the same time, it is also true that there is no common agreement upon the birth date of Prophet Mohammad. Earlier, Mawlid was treated as a private celebration that received a huge popularity with time. It is also celebrated in India. It is observed as a carnival when roads are decorated, large street possession are organized and Mosques are decorated. Devotees distribute food for charity and stories are narrated about the life and teachings of Prophet Mohammad. It is celebrated as a time to spread love and the message of peace and togetherness among people of the world. 

By: Anita Aishvarya

Content: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mawlid