ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Tuesday celebrated Eid Mawlid Al-Nabi, the birthday of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), with cities around the country lit up like never before and gun salutes and special events planned in the federal and provincial capitals.
Rabi Al-Awwal is the third month in the Islamic calendar. The month holds special significance for Muslims around the world as they observe the 12th of the month as the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
Last week, Prime Minister Imran Khan urged the nation to celebrate this year’s birth anniversary in an “unprecedented manner.”
“Already announced as a public holiday, the day would dawn with a 31 and 21 gun salute in the federal and provincial capitals, respectively, following a night of Mehfil-e-Naat, conferences, and fireworks,” state-run APP news agency said. “Special prayers would be offered in mosques for upholding and flourishing of Islam and religious teachings, unity, solidarity, progress, and welfare of the Muslim Ummah.”
“State and religious organizations, Milad committees and individuals have planned a number of activities including processions, seminars, conferences and discussion programs to mark the annual event,” the report said.

The distribution of sweets and food has been planned at markets, schools, colleges, orphanages and homes for the disabled.
In Islamabad, the main procession is to be taken out from Bhutto Cricket Ground, near Sitara Market in Sector G-7 and will culminate at the shrine of the father of Hazrat Imam Barri. Local Milad committees have chalked out a comprehensive plan to take out processions across the country, and the government says it has put in place foolproof security plans.
“Provincial and District Seerat Committees have already finalized the plan to organize Seerat Majjalis. Naat Khawani, speeches by Ulema on Seerat topics particularity the topic of this year’s National Seerat Conference, Seerat quiz, etcetera,” APP said.

Streets, bazaars, shopping centers and government and private buildings across the country have been illuminated for days now with green and red lights.
“Many vendors have set up colorful stalls with a unique collection of badges, stickers, flags, and banners inscribed with religious slogans to pay respect and reverence to the Holy Prophet PBUH,” APP said. “Newspapers, magazines,TV and radio channels have arranged special Naatia Musharia, Naat Khawani and quiz program on Seerat.”