Bakri-Eid or Eid-al-Adah also referred to as Eid Qurban or “Feast of sacrifice” is celebrated to honour the readiness showed by Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son upon the command of Allah. Impressed by this gesture, Allah sent his angel Jibra’il (Gabriel), who put a sheep in the place of Ibrahim’s son.  Bakri-Eid as the name suggests is observed by sacrificing a goat, lamb or camel which is a symbolic re-enactment of the sacrifice made by Prophet Ibrahim. This meat is divided into three equal parts to be distributed among themselves, relatives, friends and neighbours; and the needy. Doing so is a duty for them as it ensures that everyone enjoys a meal that is meat based. The word “Eid” is derived from the Arabic word “iwd” meaning “festival” and “zuha” originates from “uzhaiyya” which is interpreted as “sacrifice”.

As per the Islamic calendar, the festival is celebrated on the 10th or 12th month of Dhul Hijjah, which is a sacred month wherein the Hajj takes place, the pilgrimage to Mecca. The festival is observed as the last day of this religious journey as it is a reminder of the mercy shown by Allah to mankind.

Bakri-Eid or Eid-al-Adah is a holiday for most enterprises or may have reduced office timings.  On the day of Bakri-Eid people visit mosques to offer special namaz for peace and prosperity. Post the namaz the goats are sacrificed for distribution.

The celebrations include meeting near and dear ones with the exchange of gifts and feast. A festival is incomplete without the presence of delicious food. The lavish spread includes mutton specialties like Mutton Biryani, Mutton Kaleji, Mutton Korma, Mutton Kheema, Chapli Kebab, Ghosht Haleem and Kheer.

Bakri-Eid this year may not have the same fervor due to the ongoing pandemic, the spirit of the festival that projects the ideals of compassion, happiness and peace will continue to persist. JD Institute of Fashion Technology wishes everyone a splendid Eid Mubarak!