On Eid al-Adha, Muslims sacrifice an animal that is dear to them to prove their devotion and love for Allah.This year, the auspicious day would commence in India on August 1, and continue until the evening of August 3.
Eid al-Adha or Bakrid is being celebrated all around the world on 31st July, according to the announcement by Saudi Arabia. However, according to the Shahi Imam of Delhi’s Jama Masjid, the festival is celebrated in India on August 1 this year.
Eid ul-Zuha or Eid al-Adha, which translates to the ‘Feast of the Sacrifice’ in English, is one of the two major Islamic holidays celebrated throughout the world, the other being Eid-al-Fitr. Popularly known as Bakra-id, this day and its festivities are a symbol of devotion to Allah and his desires. It also marks the completion of Hajj for Muslims.
According to the Islamic Lunar calendar, the festival is observed on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah. In 2020, Bakra-id will fall on the evening of 01st August (Sunday) and continue till next day evening; however, the dates may vary depending on the sighting of the moon.The history goes that Allah once commanded Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his beloved son Ismail, in a dream. Although he loved his son dearly, Ibrahim was willing to do as Allah instructed and hence set off to the mount of Mina near Mecca for the sacrifice. Upon knowing that it was God’s wish, Prophet Ismail asked his father to blindfold himself before putting him on the altar. When he opened his eyes after the act, he was surprised to see a slaughtered goat instead of his son in front of him. Ismail was standing next to him, completely unharmed. It was then revealed to him that it was a test of his faith and unflinching devotion to Allah. Therefore, the festival of Eid ul-Zuha is celebrated by the Muslims throughout the world by sacrificing a goat to commemorate Prophet Ibrahim’s Qurbani to Allah.Eid ul-Zuha is also observed as the end of the annual pilgrimage of Hajj at Mina near Mecca, in Saudi Arabia. Every Muslim devotee is required to take the Hajj pilgrimage at least once in their life.
