The 12th of Rabiul Awal brings with it great blessings and joy for the Muslims. It is the day when Allah Almighty sent His most beloved and the most praised Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) to this world to guide the humanity towards the ultimate truth and path of light. It was through the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), Allah completed his Dīn (religion) for mankind and sent His book, the holy Quran. On this day Muslims remind themselves of the unaccountable blessings, kindness and love which the Muslim Ummah got from the Holy Prophet.
Muslims in most parts of the world including Bangladesh are observing this day with utmost religious fervour. Seerat conferences are organised where religious scholars and intellectuals come and shed light on the Prophet Mohammad’s (PBUH) life, sayings and teachings. Naat (poetry written in praise of the Prophet) and Quran recitation competitions are also held. Many people also donate to charity. Food and sweets are distributed among the poor and the needy. Moreover, contributions are made to support orphanages, asylums for the physically and mentally challenged, and widows. Special prayers are offered at mosques. Stories and incidents from his life of morals, such as forgiveness, kindheartedness, bravery, wisdom, honesty, and peace lovingness, are quoted.
Milad-un-Nabi congregations, rallies and processions also take place in major cities across Bangladesh. These processions usually start from a central location (central mosques or locations of public prominence), pass through designated routes, and end at the starting point. Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi is a public holiday in Bangladesh. All government and semi government offices, and most private offices, businesses, shopping malls, post offices and educational institutions are closed on this day.
Green coloured pennants are often seen during Milad-un-Nabi processions, on shrines and mosques. Green is a colour associated with the Prophet as being one of his favored colours. It is said that the Prophet chose a green coloured flag to represent the Islamic republic during his life.
Muslims believe that the light or ‘noor’ of Prophet Mohammad (PBUH) will remain shining forever even when the sun would stop shining. Allah Almighty has made him source of help and happiness for all the humanity, from the ‘Beginning’ till after the ‘End’.
Perhaps the most important part of Milad-un-Nabi celebration is to understand and follow the character of the Prophet (PUBH)—his teachings, sufferings and how he forgave his bitter enemies.