Staff Reporter
Pakistan observed Eid Milad-un-Nabi (PBUH) on Saturday, 12th Rabi-ul-Awwal 1447 Hijri, with religious fervour, nationwide prayers, and grand processions to mark the 1,500th blessed birth anniversary of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
The day began with a 31-gun salute in Islamabad and 21-gun salutes in provincial capitals. Special prayers were offered after Fajr for the unity of the Muslim Ummah and the prosperity of Pakistan.
Mosques, streets, and public buildings were adorned with lights and decorations, while processions and Mahafils were held across the country. Religious scholars highlighted the Prophet’s teachings of peace, compassion, equality, and brotherhood.
Government and Leaders’ Messages
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif congratulated the nation and urged citizens to follow the Prophet’s example by rejecting prejudice, sectarianism, extremism, and hatred while promoting empathy and harmony.
Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, joined by his cabinet members, led processions at Memon Masjid, Bolton Market, and Malir. He called the Prophet’s life a guiding light and urged people to embody his values of brotherhood, service, and humanity. The CM also extended greetings to Muslims worldwide and prayed for stability, peace, and the rehabilitation of flood victims.
The Sindh CM House was illuminated in green and white, symbolizing devotion and joy. In a Defence Day message, Shah also paid tribute to the armed forces, recalling their courage in the 1965 war and reaffirming Sindh’s commitment to Pakistan’s defence.
Security Arrangements
Authorities implemented strict security measures for processions:
- In Rawalpindi, more than 6,000 police officers were deployed, supported by Elite Force and Dolphin Force patrols. Procession routes were sealed, monitored with Safe City cameras, and snipers were stationed on rooftops.
- In Lahore, five major processions took place with the deployment of 1,100 traffic wardens and traffic response units.
- In Karachi, over 4,400 police officers ensured security, while streets and neighbourhoods were illuminated with green flags, neon signs, and images of Masjid-e-Nabawi. Traditional rallies featured devotees on horses, camels, and floats with Na’at recitations.
Resolution Passed in Senate
The Senate unanimously passed a resolution to mark the 1500th Eid Milad-un-Nabi with nationwide celebrations. The resolution urged government institutions, private organisations, and media to promote peace, harmony, and unity through events, illumination, and welfare initiatives in line with the Prophet’s teachings.
Conclusion
This year’s Eid Milad-un-Nabi (PBUH) celebrations reflected not only devotion but also a renewed national spirit of solidarity, service, and resilience. From prayers and processions to social welfare and tributes, Pakistan marked the Prophet’s blessed birth anniversary with reverence, unity, and a collective pledge to follow his timeless teachings.
