Understanding Bakar Eid: Why is it Celebrated and What is its True Meaning?

Janakpur. Bakar Eid, a major festival of the Muslim community, is being celebrated today with great enthusiasm. This is the second largest festival celebrated by followers of Islam. Bakar Eid (Eid-ul-Adha) is celebrated in memory of the unwavering devotion and sacrifice shown by Prophet Hazrat Ibrahim towards Allah (God).

There is a tradition during this festival of giving 'Qurbani' (sacrifice) of one's most beloved possession or cattle and making donations. According to Jani Khan, a local from Janakpurdham, the Islamic holy book Quran states that Allah commanded Prophet Hazrat Ibrahim in a dream to sacrifice his most beloved possession. Hazrat Ibrahim loved his son, Ismail, the most.

Accepting Allah's command, he prepared to sacrifice his son. Pleased by Ibrahim's supreme devotion and surrender, Allah sent a Dumba (sheep) to be sacrificed in place of Ismail so that no harm would come to him. This festival began to be celebrated in memory of this event.

Local resident Khan states that this festival inspires people to sacrifice their ego, selfishness, and even their most beloved possessions. According to religious beliefs, the sacrificed meat is divided into three parts. The rule dictates that one part must be set aside for the poor and underprivileged, one part for friends and relatives, and the final part for one's own family.

This awakens a sense of equality, brotherhood, and charity in society. On this day, people gather early in the morning at the Eidgah or mosque wearing clean clothes to offer special Namaz (prayers) and exchange greetings by hugging each other and saying 'Eid Mubarak'.