The festival of Eid-Al-Adha is a much-celebrated religious ritual among Muslims worldwide, marking the conclusion of Mecca (Hajj) trip. Popularly known as Greater Eid or the “sacrifice feast”, this festival brings a distinctive opportunity to share and pass on the culinary experiences to generations. Celebrated to commemorate the willful sacrifice of Prophet Abraham’s elder son, Ismaeel, to fulfill God’s command, the Muslims pay sacrifice of an animal, particularly a sheep on this day.
There is also a ritual of dividing the meat of sacrificed animal in three parts. It is then shared with family, friends, relatives, neighbors, and the deprived people. People even give gifts and money to homeless kids as a symbol of love on this day. India, being a land of tradition, hosts this festival with great enthusiasm and happiness. People are seen wearing their new clothes and wishing each other with a cheerful smile on their faces.
Importance of the sheep
Sheep is the traditional sacrificial animal for this festival. As per the mythical story, it is believed that before Abraham sacrificed his son, God intervened the process and sent Angel Gabriel to replace his son with a sheep. It also symbolizes the act of delightful generosity.
A gigantic celebration
The celebration starts with morning prayers delivered by the devotees at a Mosque. They ideally prefer to wear their finest outfits to render the prayers. This is further followed by family get together, meals and exchange of gifts. During this period only, the Muslim community demonstrates regular practices of charity, ensuring that no needy person misses the opportunity to share the sacrificial meal.
Food is also a major defining component of the celebration. Besides the traditional dishes, people also prepare a variety of mouth-watering desserts such as, pudding of Indian rice, Turkish baklava, biscuits, and cakes.
Buddy4study wishes you all a happy and blissful Eid-Al-Adha. May this auspicious occasion bless you with joy, peace, and happiness to your home and heart!