Global celebrations mark Prophet Muhammad’s birth anniversary

Muslims worldwide are celebrating Mawlid al-Nabi, the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad, with festivities and prayers across various nations.

This special day, observed on the 12th of Rabi’ al-Awwal, the third month in the Islamic calendar, is marked with different customs, from religious gatherings to acts of charity.

In Turkiye, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan extended heartfelt wishes, highlighting the importance of peace for all of humanity.

Istanbul’s historic mosques, including Hagia Sophia, hosted prayers with thousands of worshippers in attendance.

Similar events were observed at Barbaros Hayrettin Pasha Mosque in Istanbul.

Egypt’s streets were filled with vibrant celebrations, processions, hymns, and the distribution of sweets in Qais village, Minya.

Across India, special prayers, processions, and charity drives took place, with homes and streets adorned in decorations.

In Indian-administered Kashmir, massive crowds offered prayers at the Hazratbal shrine.

Yemen’s capital Sanaa saw people gather for the occasion, with Houthi leader Abdulmalik Al-Houthi delivering a speech.

In Nigeria, large crowds came together to honor the Prophet with festivities, while in Tunisia, the city of Kairouan hosted religious gatherings and hymns.

Iraqi Muslims in Erbil held similar celebrations, praying for blessings and peace.

Muslims say these global celebrations emphasize unity, kindness, and devotion to the teachings of Prophet Muhammad.

The Prophet died on the same day as that of his birth at the age of 63.

The day is a public holiday in several Muslim-majority countries, including Bangladesh, Indonesia, Pakistan, Malaysia, and some parts of India.