Bakrid, one of the most significant and sacred festivals in the Islamic calendar, will be observed on May 28 (Thursday) this year across the country.
As per the religious calendar, the festival, also known as Eid-ul-Adha, usually takes place 10 days after the sighting of the crescent moon. With the Jama Masjid Shahi Imam confirming that the moon was not sighted on May 17, 2026, Sunday, and was expected and sighted on Monday, Bakrid will align with May 28 in India.
A day after the crescent moon sighting also marks the beginning of the 12th and the final Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah, in which the festival falls. Along with Bakrid, the holy month also holds the significance of the culmination of the annual Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca.
Timeline
A day after the crescent moon sighting: This marks Day 1, the literal beginning of Dhul Hijjah, the 12th month of the Islamic lunar calendar.
The 10-day countdown: The first 10 days of this month are considered highly sacred. Muslims engage in increased prayers, charity and fasting.
Day 9 (Day of Arafah): This is considered one of the holiest days of the year, marking the peak of the Hajj pilgrimage.
Day 10 (Bakrid / Eid-ul-Adha): The festival officially begins on the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah, which falls nine days after the beginning of the month.
While countries like Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates and Pakistan sighted the moon earlier, marking the beginning of Dhul Hijjah on May 18, they are expected to celebrate the festival on May 27, a day ahead of India this year.
History and core tradition
According to Islamic tradition, the festival honours the unwavering faith and devotion of Prophet Ibrahim, who showed his willingness to sacrifice his son Ismail in obedience to Allah's command.
The festival marks the Qurbani ritual, during which devotees sacrifice a sheep, goat or other permitted livestock. The meat is divided into three equal portions - one for the family, one for relatives and friends, and the final third reserved for the poor and needy.