In a display of communal harmony, the Muslim community in Mumbai has decided to move back their Eid-e-Milad procession to September 18, coinciding with Anant Chaturdashi or Ganesh Visarjan, which is celebrated on September 17. This decision, made after a meeting at Khilafat House, Byculla, aims to avoid any clashes between the two festivals.
Eid-e-Milad, which marks the birthday of Prophet Muhammad, is traditionally celebrated on September 16, with processions taking place on September 17. However, this year, the date coincides with Ganesh Visarjan, leading to concerns about logistical challenges and potential security issues.
Shuiab Khatib, the trustee of Mumbai’s Jama Masjid, expressed concerns that the Muslim community might face difficulties in displaying their planned floats if both celebrations occur on the same day. He also cited the possibility of police permissions being denied on short notice as a reason for the postponement.
Similar decisions were made in other parts of Maharashtra. In Navi Mumbai, the imam of Garib Nawaz Masjid, Mohammad Khalilullah Subhani, announced the postponement of Eid-e-Milad after a peace meeting convened by the Navi Mumbai Police. The meeting was attended by officials from the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation, public works department, fire department, and representatives from various Ganesh mandals and Muslim clerics.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Zone 1) Pankaj Dahane lauded the Muslim community’s decision to reschedule their religious activities, emphasizing the spirit of unity and co-existence between communities.
In Hyderabad, the Milad-un-Nabi organizing committee has also agreed to delay their celebrations until September 19 to avoid clashing with Visarjan festivities.
Maharashtra Congress leader Naseem Khan has urged Chief Minister Eknath Shinde to declare Eid-e-Milad a public holiday in the state on September 18 instead of September 16. He argued that the postponement of the processions to September 18 necessitates a change in the holiday date to ensure both festivals are celebrated with full enthusiasm.
