Bakrid, also known as Eid-ul-Adha, is one of the most sacred festivals in Islam. It carries profound spiritual significance and brings together millions of Muslims worldwide in faith, compassion, and community. The festival is celebrated with heartfelt devotion and generous acts of charity, featuring grand prayers, family gatherings, and the symbolic tradition of animal sacrifice. So, when exactly will Bakrid be celebrated in 2025, and what is the story behind this revered occasion?
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When Is Bakrid 2025 celebrated in India?
The date of Bakrid varies each year and is determined by the lunar Islamic calendar. Specifically, it falls on the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah, the final month in the Islamic calendar, following the sighting of the crescent moon.
In 2025, the crescent moon for Dhul Hijjah was sighted in Saudi Arabia on May 27. As a result, Eid-ul-Adha will be celebrated on June 6 in Saudi Arabia. In India, where moon sightings are often a day behind, Bakrid will be observed on June 7, 2025.
The story behind Eid-ul-Adha
The roots of Eid-ul-Adha lie in a powerful narrative of faith, obedience, and divine mercy. According to Islamic tradition, Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) had a dream in which God instructed him to sacrifice his son Isma'il (Ishmael) as an act of devotion and surrender to the divine will.
Despite the immense emotional weight of this command, Ibrahim prepared to carry it out. However, just as he was about to perform the sacrifice, God replaced Isma'il with a ram, sparing his son and rewarding Ibrahim’s unwavering faith. This moment of divine intervention is a central lesson in trust, submission, and mercy.
This story is found in the Quran in Surah As-Saffat (verses 99–113), and it continues to serve as a guiding example of true devotion and selflessness.
Why is Bakrid significant?
Eid-ul-Adha is far more than just a ritual of sacrifice; it embodies some of the most cherished values of Islam:
Faith and obedience: At its heart, the festival reminds Muslims of the strength of Prophet Ibrahim's faith and willingness to surrender to God's command.
Generosity and sharing: The animal sacrificed during Bakrid is divided into three parts: one for the family, one for relatives and friends, and one for the poor and needy, highlighting the importance of community support and compassion.
Unity in worship: The celebration coincides with the final rites of the Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca, a sacred journey that is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. It brings together Muslims from around the world in a collective expression of spirituality.
Celebration and togetherness: Families gather for special prayers, festive meals, and joyful exchanges of gifts and greetings. It's a time of both reflection and celebration.
