 Barah Wafaat is one of the most famous festivals in Muslim religion. It is also known as Id Milad-Ul-Nabi. Barah wafaat is the twelfth day of Rabi-Ul-Awaaal (September - October) that is the third month according to Muslim calendar. This sacred day is both the birth and the death anniversary of the prophet Huzoor Sallalahu Alai Wasallam. This famous day which is generally called Barah wafaat is observed as the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad. It is said that prophet Muhammad was the son of Abdullah and grandson of Abdul Muttalib. The leader of Muslim religion Prophet Muhammad was born in AD 571 on the 12 th of April at Macca in Arabia and in 622 AD Muhammad went to Madina along with his followers. Barah Wafaat name has been taken to signify the twelve days of sickness of the prophet which ended his death.
The flight which goes from Macca to Madina is called Hijrah and marks the beginning of Islamic era. It is believed that the Islamic religion was accepted by 630 AD as a ruler by a large number of people and after that in 632 AD prophet Muhammad led the pilgrimage to Mecca , preached his farewell sermon and then died soon. As the great Islamic leader prophet Muhammad's birth's days is his death day also so there are no grand celebration therefore Muslims spend this day in spiritual activities. The great holy book of Muslims 'Qur'an' is recited for the twelve days. His birth and death stories and many incidents of miracles achieved are narrated. On this day sermons are also delivered to mosques by erudite man who is well-versed in Hadith (tradition).
In the evening, candelas are lighted up and placed around the walls of the houses; people assemble and have sacramental meals along with porridge of rice cooked in milk that is called Kheer. The favorite dish of Prophet Muhammad that is Sayidut-Tam is also prepared and well liked by people. Fatihah prayer is done over the prepared food on this day in the name of prophet and after that it can be taken. Friends and relatives are invited to feasts and Sweet meals are distributed.
A ceremony which is known as 'Sandal Rite' is performed in some mosques. Prophet's symbolic footprints engraved in a stone are worshiped. Besides the house and casket containing this are flamboyantly decorated, food is distributed to the poor. The twelfth day is the Urs suitable day and observed quietly that is spent in prayer and alms giving.
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