Eid ul Azha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is one of the most significant religious festivals celebrated by Muslims worldwide, including Pakistan. This joyous occasion holds great cultural and religious importance for the Pakistani population, fostering a sense of community, faith, and generosity.
Eid ul Azha commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (A.S) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to Allah. As a demonstration of his unwavering faith, Ibrahim (A.S) was ready to make the ultimate sacrifice. However, at the last moment, Allah provided a ram for sacrifice instead. This story symbolizes the importance of sacrifice, submission, and trust in God. Muslims in Pakistan and around the world celebrate this event by sacrificing animals, usually sheep, goats, or cows, as a way to emulate Ibrahim’s devotion.
Preparations for Eid ul Azha in Pakistan begin weeks in advance. Families and individuals make arrangements to purchase animals for sacrifice, often pooling resources to ensure that everyone can participate in the spirit of giving. Livestock markets become vibrant centers of activity, bustling with people selecting the healthiest and most suitable animals for their sacrifice. This process not only fulfills the religious obligation but also serves as a means to provide meat for those in need.
On the day of Eid, Muslims in Pakistan gather at mosques and prayer grounds to offer special congregational prayers. This communal act of worship fosters unity, humility, and gratitude. People dress in traditional attire, with men wearing crisp white shalwar kameez and women adorning colorful, intricately embroidered outfits. Following the prayers, individuals visit family, friends, and neighbors, exchanging greetings and embracing the joyous spirit of the festival.
A core principle of Eid ul Azha is the act of giving. After the sacrifice, the meat of the sacrificed animal is divided into three equal parts. One part is retained by the family, another is distributed among relatives and friends, and the remaining portion is allocated for those less fortunate. This distribution of meat, known as “Qurbani,” ensures that everyone, irrespective of their socio-economic status, can partake in the festivities and enjoy a hearty meal. Charitable organizations and individuals also make extensive efforts to reach out to underprivileged communities, orphanages, and hospitals, ensuring that the spirit of generosity is spread far and wide.
Eid ul Azha serves as a catalyst for strengthening community bonds and fostering a sense of togetherness. The act of sacrificing animals and sharing the meat brings people from various backgrounds together, transcending differences of class, ethnicity, and religion. Neighbours and strangers alike open their doors to one another, exchanging pleasantries and extending warm hospitality. The festive atmosphere is complemented by delicious traditional dishes and sweets, which are shared generously with visitors.