Eid ul Azha 2025: Pakistan Prepares for the Grand Islamic Festival on June 6 Amid Regional Tensions
Eid ul Azha, known as the “Qurbani wari Eid,” is one of the two holiest celebrations in Islam, observed with deep religious fervor across Pakistan. In 2025, the sacred festival is expected to be celebrated on Friday, June 6, depending on the sighting of the moon, marking the 10th of Dhu al-Hijjah on the Islamic calendar.
Eid ul Azha, a Festival of Faith and Sacrifice
Hajj wari Eid or قرباني جي عيد honors the historic act of devotion by Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham), who was prepared to sacrifice his beloved son in obedience to Allah’s command. Muslims worldwide commemorate this act by sacrificing animals—such as goats, cows, or camels—and distributing the meat among family, friends, and the less fortunate poor people.
In Pakistan, the days leading up to Eid witness a surge in cattle markets, bustling with activity as families prepare for the sacred ritual of Qurbani. The celebrations continue over three days, traditionally known as the Tashreeq days, during which the spiritual essence of sacrifice, sharing, and community takes center stage.
Traditional Observances in Pakistan
- Eid Prayers: Congregational prayers are held early in the morning at mosques and open fields.
- Animal Sacrifice (Qurbani): Performed to honor Prophet Ibrahim’s unwavering faith on these three days
- Charity: A significant portion of the meat is distributed among the underprivileged.
- Festive Gatherings: Families host lavish meals and visit relatives and neighbors.
- Gift-Giving and New Clothes: A festive spirit fills homes with joy and generosity.
Hajj what is it and Its Connection to Eid ul Azha
Hajj, the fifth pillar of Islam, holds a deep connection with Eid ul Azha. Every year, Muslims who perform the Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca on the 10th of Dhu al-Hijjah conduct Qurbani as part of their rituals in Mina, commemorating Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah. This act of sacrifice symbolizes devotion and submission to Allah’s will.
Simultaneously, Muslims around the world observe Eid ul Azha, performing Qurbani and sharing meat with the less fortunate, thus strengthening the bonds of community and fulfilling religious obligations. This shared practice unites the global Muslim ummah in reverence and acts of charity.
A Peaceful Eid Amid Rising Regional Tensions
While Pakistan prepares to embrace Eid ul Azha with traditional zeal, the backdrop of rising regional tensions following the Pahalgam incident in Indian-administered Kashmir has stirred fresh concerns. Cross-border rhetoric and fears of escalation have raised the specter of conflict between India and Pakistan, countries that share a complex and often strained relationship.
Despite the looming uncertainties, Pakistani citizens and religious leaders are hopeful that Eid will be observed peacefully, with prayers not just for personal blessings but also for regional harmony and stability. The spirit of Eid reminds everyone of the power of faith, compassion, and coexistence—values that are desperately needed in times of tension.
A Time to Reflect and Unite
As the nation comes together to celebrate one of Islam’s most sacred occasions, this Eid ul Azha serves as a timely opportunity to reflect on the values of sacrifice, patience, and peace. Let this Eid be not only a celebration of faith and tradition but also a collective prayer for unity, resilience, and a peaceful future for the entire South Asian region.
Animal Rights on Eid ul Azha
Bakra Eid is a festival of sacrifice, but it also reminds us of our responsibility towards animals. Islam teaches kindness, mercy, and humane treatment of all creatures. Animals chosen for Qurbani should be healthy, well-fed, and not overburdened or mistreated. They must be sheltered from heat and stress before sacrifice.
The act should be quick and painless, performed with compassion and proper Islamic method. Children should not be exposed to cruelty. Afterward, the remains should be disposed of hygienically. Respecting animal rights during Eid reflects our moral and religious values, ensuring both worship and welfare go hand in hand.
Meat Hoarding on Qurbani ji Eid: A Betrayal of the Spirit of Sacrifice
An unethical practice during Bakra Eid is hoarding most of the sacrificial meat in freezers, neglecting the true spirit of sharing. In Pakistan, a country facing nutritional deficiencies, especially in protein intake, many people—particularly the poor—rarely consume meat. Compared to Arabs and developed nations, meat consumption here is significantly lower.
Eid ul Adha provides a rare opportunity to distribute high-quality protein to those in need. Islam emphasizes charity and feeding the less fortunate. Instead of storing excessive amounts, we must ensure meat reaches the underprivileged, fulfilling both a religious obligation and addressing Pakistan’s nutritional crisis with compassion and equity.
Bottom-line
Let us celebrate Eid ul Azha with true fervor, upholding the ethical and moral values it teaches. Sacrifice is not just about ritual, but about compassion, sharing, and fulfilling our duty toward others. By distributing meat justly and caring for animals humanely, we honor the true spirit of Eid and fulfill its noble purpose as prescribed by our faith.