Eid Milad-un-Nabi 2025: Here is the history, significance and traditional celebrations

Eid Milad-un-Nabi, also known as Milad-un-Nabi, is a festival celebrated by is a festival celebrated by Muslims all around the world. Eid Milad-un-Nabi is observed in Rabi’ al-Awwal, the third month of the Islamic lunar calendar.

The festival marks the birth anniversary It marks the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad. This year, Eid Milad-ul-Nabi is expected to fall around September 4 or 5. The exact date depends on the moon sighting.

Eid Milad-un-Nabi history & Significance

The celebration of Prophet Muhammad's birth anniversary goes back to the early Islamic period, with the Fatimids being the first to officially mark the occasion. It is believed that the Prophet was born in Mecca on the 12th of Rabi’ al-Awwal in 570 CE.


The term “Mawlid” literally means “birth” in Arabic. The first official celebration was observed in Egypt and soon became widespread and popular during the 11th century.

At first, only the Shia tribe celebrated the festival, but in the 12th century, other countries like Syria, Morocco, Turkey, and Spain also began celebrating. This is when some Sunni Muslim sects started observing it as well.

Early festive traditions included prayers, speeches, and narrated verses from the Holy Quran. Further, a large public feast would be observed. Members of the ruling clan who conducted the festivities were considered to be Caliphs, seen as representatives of the Prophet.

Over time, the celebration practices saw some changes under Sufi influence, including animal sacrifices, public discourses, nighttime torchlight processions, and a public banquet.

Today, Muslims celebrate the festival with new clothes, prayers and exchanging greetings. Communities gather at mosques and dargahs. The day starts with morning prayers, followed by processions through towns. Stories of the Prophet’s life and teachings from the Quran are narrated to children, while donations are given to the needy.