In a vibrant display of faith and unity, Jammu and Kashmir observed Eid-i-Milad-ul-Nabi on September 12, 2025, marking the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) on the 12th of Rabi-ul-Awal. All government and private schools across the Union Territory remained closed, extending the festivities that commenced earlier in the month and providing a much-needed respite for students and families. The Directorate of School Education confirmed the holiday, aligning with the Islamic lunar calendar, which saw the moon sighting on August 24, 2025, setting the date for this auspicious occasion.
Thousands flocked to mosques and shrines for night-long prayers, recitations, and Shab-e-Khawani, with the Hazratbal Shrine in Srinagar drawing over 50,000 devotees who viewed the holy relic—a revered hair of the Prophet—after pre-dawn Fajr prayers. In Jammu, processions and community gatherings at historic sites like the Jamia Masjid emphasized themes of peace, compassion, and tolerance, echoing the Prophet’s teachings. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah extended greetings, urging citizens to embrace unity and brotherhood, stating, “Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi reminds us of kindness and service to humanity, strengthening harmony across J&K.”
This observance holds profound cultural significance in a region with a Muslim population exceeding 68% (as per the 2011 Census, with projections estimating growth to 70% by 2025). Historically, Milad-un-Nabi has been a public holiday in J&K since the 1950s, fostering interfaith respect in a diverse society. Last year, similar events saw participation from over 200,000 across the Valley, boosting local economies through charity distributions and feasts. However, this year’s celebrations were tempered by recent floods, which displaced 10,000 families and caused ₹500 crore in damages, prompting organizers to incorporate relief appeals.
The holiday also aligns with broader September observances, including potential weather-related closures; IMD data indicates 27 rainy days in Jammu last month, contributing to 12,000 km of road damage. Parents are advised to monitor the Directorate’s website for any extensions, while the event underscores J&K’s commitment to inclusive traditions. As prayers concluded, participants shared Seviyan and sweets, symbolizing sweetness in life, with community leaders calling for emulating the Prophet’s message amid ongoing recovery efforts. This Eid not only renews spiritual bonds but also highlights resilience, with over 80% of flood-affected schools reopening by early September despite infrastructural setbacks.