Id-ul-Zuha, commonly known as Bakrid or Eid al-Adha, is one of the most significant Islamic festivals observed by Muslims across India and the world. The festival commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to Allah’s command.
However, just as he was about to carry out the sacrifice, Allah provided a ram to be sacrificed instead. Id-ul-Zuha honours this act of faith and devotion, and it is celebrated with prayers, feasts, and the ritual of animal sacrifice, known as Qurbani.
Id-ul-Zuha (Bakrid) Dates for 2024, 2025, and 2026
To help you plan for Id-ul-Zuha in the upcoming years, here are the dates:
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 17/06/2024 | Monday |
| 2025 | 07/06/2025 | Saturday |
| 2026 | 27/05/2026 | Wednesday |
The Significance of Id-ul-Zuha (Bakrid)
Id-ul-Zuha is celebrated in remembrance of the story of Prophet Ibrahim’s faith and his willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah. According to Islamic tradition, Prophet Ibrahim was tested by Allah, who commanded him to sacrifice his beloved son, Ismail. Just before the sacrifice, Allah intervened and replaced Ismail with a ram, sparing the boy’s life. This act of obedience and faith is commemorated during Id-ul-Zuha by the sacrifice of an animal, typically a goat, sheep, or cow, known as Qurbani.
The festival holds deep spiritual significance for Muslims, as it symbolises complete submission to the will of Allah, as well as the values of generosity, sacrifice, and charity. It is also an occasion to reflect on the importance of sharing blessings with others, particularly the less fortunate.
How Id-ul-Zuha (Bakrid) is Celebrated
Id-ul-Zuha is celebrated over three days and involves a series of religious rituals and community gatherings. The key elements of the celebrations include:
- Morning Prayers: The day begins with special prayers offered at mosques or prayer grounds. Muslims gather in large congregations to offer the Salat al-Eid, a special Eid prayer, which is followed by a sermon.
- Qurbani (Animal Sacrifice): One of the central rituals of Id-ul-Zuha is the sacrifice of an animal, which symbolises Prophet Ibrahim’s obedience to Allah. The meat from the sacrificed animal is divided into three parts – one-third is kept for the family, one-third is given to relatives and friends, and one-third is donated to the poor and needy.
- Feasts and Gatherings: After the sacrifice, families and friends come together to share a festive meal. Traditional dishes such as biryani, kebabs, and other meat-based delicacies are prepared and enjoyed. It is a time of communal joy and bonding, as people exchange greetings and celebrate the spirit of the festival.
- Acts of Charity: Charity is a key aspect of Id-ul-Zuha, as the festival emphasises the importance of helping those in need. Muslims donate money, food, and clothing to the poor, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to partake in the celebrations.
Id-ul-Zuha (Bakrid) in Different Parts of India
Id-ul-Zuha is celebrated with great fervour across India, particularly in regions with large Muslim populations. While the customs and traditions may vary slightly from region to region, the essence of the festival remains the same – devotion, sacrifice, and charity.
- North India: In states like Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, and West Bengal, large congregations gather for Eid prayers, and the ritual of Qurbani is observed with great devotion. The day is marked by visits to relatives and friends, as well as the distribution of meat to the less fortunate.
- South India: In Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka, Muslims celebrate Id-ul-Zuha by offering prayers, performing Qurbani, and hosting elaborate feasts. Community gatherings and acts of charity are also common during the festival.
- West India: In Maharashtra and Gujarat, the festival is celebrated with prayers, family gatherings, and the sharing of food with neighbours and the needy. In cities like Mumbai and Ahmedabad, the streets are filled with a festive atmosphere as people come together to celebrate.
Id-ul-Zuha (Bakrid) – A Day of Faith, Sacrifice, and Generosity
Id-ul-Zuha is a day that emphasises the values of faith, sacrifice, and generosity. It is a time for Muslims to reflect on their relationship with Allah and to reaffirm their commitment to living a life of obedience, compassion, and charity. Through the act of Qurbani, Muslims remember the spirit of sacrifice and the importance of sharing their blessings with others, particularly those who are less fortunate.
The festival is not only a celebration of faith but also a reminder of the responsibilities that come with it – to care for others, to be charitable, and to live a life guided by the principles of Islam. Id-ul-Zuha serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of faith, family, and community in the lives of Muslims around the world.
Popular FAQs about Id-ul-Zuha (Bakrid)
- Is Id-ul-Zuha a public holiday in India? Yes, Id-ul-Zuha is a gazetted public holiday in India. It is observed across the country, particularly in states with significant Muslim populations.
- What is the significance of Qurbani during Id-ul-Zuha? Qurbani, the ritual sacrifice of an animal, commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah. It symbolises faith, obedience, and charity.
- How do Muslims celebrate Id-ul-Zuha? Muslims celebrate Id-ul-Zuha by offering special prayers, performing the ritual of Qurbani (animal sacrifice), sharing festive meals with family and friends, and donating to charity.
- Why is charity important during Id-ul-Zuha? Charity is an essential part of Id-ul-Zuha, as the festival encourages Muslims to share their blessings with the less fortunate. Acts of charity help foster a sense of community and compassion.