Maharashtra Government Shifts Eid-e-Milad Holiday To September 18 In Mumbai; Know Why

By OB Bureau On Sep 14, 2024

New Delhi: The Maharashtra government has rescheduled the Eid-e-Milad holiday in the Mumbai district from September 16-18, following a request from the local Muslim community to avoid a clash with Anant Chaturdashi, the final day of Ganesh Chaturthi on September 17.

An official statement from the state government confirmed the change, noting that the local Muslim community had voluntarily chosen to shift their Eid-e-Milad processions to September 18 to ensure that both festivals could be celebrated without logistical issues. Ganpati Visarjan, the immersion of Ganesh idols, typically draws massive crowds across Mumbai, making it one of the city’s most significant events.

The Khilafat House in Byculla, representing the Muslim community, proposed the change, which was accepted by the state authorities. Subsequently, Maharashtra Congress leader Naseem Khan wrote to Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, urging him to officially declare September 18 as the Eid-e-Milad holiday instead of September 16, aligning with the community’s decision, moneycontrol reported.

“Anant Chaturdashi falls on September 17, and members of the Muslim community have decided to take out Eid-e-Milad processions on September 18 so that both festivals can be celebrated with pomp and gaiety,” Khan said in his letter to the Chief Minister.

Eid-e-Milad, marking the birth of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), is traditionally observed on September 16, depending on the sighting of the moon. However, this year marks the second consecutive time that the Muslim community in Mumbai has chosen to voluntarily reschedule its processions, prioritising communal harmony and smooth celebrations for all.

“Just like last year, the Muslim community has once again demonstrated unity and coexistence by adjusting their religious activities to ensure the Ganpati immersion process proceeds without any hindrance,” Deputy Commissioner of Police (Zone 1), Pankaj Dahane was quoted as saying.

District Collectors in other regions of Maharashtra have also been given the discretion to adjust the Eid-e-Milad holiday based on local conditions and similar logistical concerns.

Meanwhile, in Navi Mumbai, the Eid-e-Milad procession, which traditionally starts in Turbhe and winds through Vashi and Koparkhairane before concluding at Ghansoli Dargah, will also take place on September 18.