KATHMANDU: Today marks the celebration of Bakra Eid (Eid al-Adha), one of the major festivals in the Muslim faith, observed in mosques across the country. Eid al-Adha is traditionally commemorated on the 70th day after Ramadan. The day begins with Muslims performing a ritual bath, followed by offering prayers at the nearest mosque or Idgah. It is a time for exchanging greetings and fostering community bonds.
Muslims nationwide gather in mosques and Eidgah, including prominent locations like the Nepali Jame Masjid and Kashmiri Masjid on Durbar Marg. The festival, which dates back 1439 years according to the Hijri calendar, honors the willingness of Ibrahim to sacrifice his son Ishmael at the command of Allah. Maulana Rahmat Ali, a Muslim religious scholar, emphasized the significance of Prophet Muhammad, who is part of Ibrahim's lineage, in the historical narrative of Bakra Eid.
Prophet Muhammad's contributions to passing down religious practices and the Hadith scriptures hold central importance in the celebration. Large gatherings in Mecca and Medina during this festival underscore its spiritual significance. While pilgrimages to these holy sites are facilitated by the Ministry of Home Affairs through the Haj Committee Secretariat, those unable to travel partake in the festivities at home. The Qurbani, the ritual sacrifice of permissible animals, is a key observance during Bakra Eid, echoing Ibrahim's act of faith.
According to tradition, Ibrahim was commanded by Allah to sacrifice his son Ismail, born to his wife Hagar, as a test of faith. However, Allah replaced Ismail with a ram from heaven, which Ibrahim ultimately sacrificed. This symbolic act is remembered through the continued practice of animal sacrifice, with the sacrificial meat being shared among the needy, friends, and family.
The celebration of Bakra Eid extends over three days, culminating on Wednesday. Sacrifices are performed on each of these days, as affirmed by Mansoor Hussain, Secretary of Nepali Jame Masjid. In recognition of the festival's significance, the government has declared today a public holiday, allowing Muslims across the nation to observe this sacred occasion with reverence and joy.
