Muslims across Sri Lanka are observing Milad-un-Nabi today (25), commemorating the birth of Prophet Muhammad and reflecting on his life, teachings and message of peace.
The 42nd National Milad-un-Nabi celebration will be held at 3.00 p.m. at Al-Hilal College in Periyamulla, Negombo, under the patronage of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.
Several religious, educational and community programmes have been organised as part of the national celebrations, highlighting the values associated with the life and teachings of Prophet Muhammad.
Milad-un-Nabi, also known as Mawlid or Mawlid al-Nabi, is an observance commemorating the birth of Prophet Muhammad, whom Muslims regard as the final prophet in Islam.
Prophet Muhammad was born in Makkah in the 6th century CE. According to Islamic tradition, his birth occurred in the month of Rabi’ al-Awwal, the third month of the Islamic lunar calendar.
The observance developed as a formal public religious tradition centuries after the Prophet’s lifetime, with practices varying among countries and Muslim communities. These may include religious gatherings, recitations, sermons, prayers, poetry, discussions on the Prophet’s life and charitable or community activities.
For Muslims, the occasion provides an opportunity to learn about and reflect on the Prophet’s character, conduct and teachings, with emphasis often placed on values such as compassion, honesty, patience, justice, generosity, forgiveness and care for others.
Milad-un-Nabi has been observed by Sri Lanka’s Muslim community for generations and has become an important religious and community occasion. Religious gatherings, sermons, educational programmes and charitable activities are held in mosques, schools and community institutions across the country.
In Sri Lanka’s multi-religious and multi-ethnic society, national and community-level Milad programmes also emphasise peaceful coexistence, mutual respect and understanding among people of different faiths and backgrounds.
This year’s national celebrations similarly aim to promote the values of peace, compassion, unity, tolerance and service to humanity associated with the Prophet’s teachings.
The national event in Negombo is expected to bring together religious leaders, government representatives, community members and others to mark the occasion and reflect on its broader message.