Dwarka Celebrates Eid-Ul-Adha

As the first rays of the morning sun lit up the skyline of Dwarka, the echoes of “Eid Mubarak” filled the air, bringing with them a spirit of devotion, sacrifice and togetherness. Dressed in traditional attire, families stepped out of their homes with smiles and prayers, while mosques across the city witnessed large gatherings of worshippers celebrating Eid-ul-Adha with deep faith and joy.
Recent discussions surrounding Bakra Eid (Eid al-Adha) and the traditional animal sacrifice have sparked significant viral controversies and societal debates. Maharashtra politician Nitesh Rane sparked a massive political and online storm by suggesting that people should celebrate Bakrid "virtually" by placing a picture of a goat on a computer, drawing parallels to restrictions often placed on Hindu festivals. Tensions and disputes have frequently gone viral in residential complexes where residents clash over the logistics, ethics and housing permissions for animal sacrifices. In a bid to promote harmony and compassion, some community groups have chosen to celebrate the festival symbolically by cutting a cake or donating equivalent funds to local orphanages rather than sacrificing livestock. Amidst all discussions, Eid-ul-Adha was celebrated across the national capital on 28th May with traditional fervour and gaiety. In Dwarka too, special prayers were offered at the mosque in Sector-11. Residents visited friends and relatives, exchanged greetings, shared sweets and meals and performed the ‘Qurbani’ sacrifice. Popularly known as Bakrid or Eid Qurban, Eid-ul-Adha is one of the most significant festivals in Islam and is observed by Muslims across the world on the tenth day of Dhu al-Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic calendar. The festival commemorates the devotion and obedience of Prophet Ibrahim, who was willing to sacrifice his son Ismail in submission to Allah’s command. According to Islamic belief, Allah replaced Ismail with a ram at the last moment, rewarding Ibrahim’s unwavering faith. The festival also coincides with the annual Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca, one of the five pillars of Islam. Muslims begin the day with a special namaz offered at mosques, followed by the Khutbah delivered by the Imam. The ritual sacrifice of a goat or sheep is then performed and the meat is distributed equally among family members, relatives, neighbours and the needy, symbolising compassion and sharing.
Homes across Dwarka were filled with the aroma of festive dishes as families hosted feasts and welcomed guests throughout the day. Butchers too remained busy visiting households to assist in the ritual sacrifices. Naseer Ahmad Naqvi said, “This is a very special day for Muslims. It reminds us of Prophet Ibrahim’s devotion and willingness to sacrifice what was dearest to him in obedience to God. It teaches faith, sacrifice and humanity.”
Mohommad Tahir said, “I wish all Dwarkaites Eid Mubarak and pray that this festival brings happiness and peace to every home. We offered namaz at the Sector-11 mosque where prayers were held in three batches due to the huge gathering. After the sacrifice, we shared food and sweets and visited friends and relatives to celebrate together.”