Celebrations

Public meetings are held in the mosques where religious leaders and scholars speaks on different aspects of the life of Prophet. Tribute is paid to Prophet and songs are sung in his praise. The learned men deliver sermons in mosques, focusing on the life and noble deeds of the Prophet.

A ceremony called Sandal rite is performed in some parts of India in which the symbolic footprints of the Prophet imprinted in stone and a model of horse like animal, buraq which is believed to ascend Prophet to heaven is worshiped. The footprints are smeared with sandal paste or scented powder, and the house and chest containing these are elaborately decorated. Marsiyas are sung in memory of the last days of the Prophet.

The streets, mosques and buildings are decorated with colorful streamers and banners and well illuminated with colourful lights in night. People generously donate to charity to the poor. Feasts are arranged and food is served to guests and the poor.

Processions navigate through the street. Morning prayers are offered in mosques. Stories about the life and teachings of Muhammad are narrated. Scholars and poets recite Qaida al-Burda Sharif, by Busiri.

Id-e-Milad or Milad-un-Nabi is celebrated not only in Muslim countries, but also in other countries where any number of muslims living there. Saudi Arabia is the only Muslim country who does not have an official public holiday on Mawlid.