Eid-ul-Azha (Bakrid), one of the most important Islamic festivals, is being celebrated across most parts of India on 28 May 2026, while Jammu & Kashmir observed it on 27 May 2026 due to local moon sighting. The Government of India declared 28 May 2026 as the official gazetted holiday, leading to the closure of banks, schools, and offices.
The festival commemorates the devotion and obedience of Prophet Ibrahim, who was willing to sacrifice his son Ismail as an act of faith in Allah. According to Islamic tradition, Allah replaced the sacrifice with a ram, symbolizing mercy and unwavering faith. Eid-ul-Azha also marks the completion of the annual Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca.
Key rituals include special Eid prayers (Namaz) at mosques and Eidgahs, followed by sermons (Khutbah). Muslims perform Qurbani (animal sacrifice) and distribute the meat among family, relatives, and the poor, highlighting the importance of charity and compassion. Families celebrate with traditional dishes such as biryani, kebabs, korma, and sheer khurma.
