The Maharashtra government has shifted the official Eid-e-Milad holiday in Mumbai from September 16 to September 18. This change was made after the local Muslim community decided to hold Eid processions on September 18, rather than September 16, to avoid any clashes with Anant Chaturdashi, the final day of the Ganesh festival, which falls on September 17. According to an official statement, district collectors can similarly adjust the Eid holiday in other areas based on local conditions, as reported by news agency PTI.

On Sunday, Maharashtra Congress leader Naseem Khan requested Chief Minister Eknath Shinde to declare September 18, rather than September 16, as the holiday for Eid-e-Milad. In his letter, Khan noted that Anant Chaturdashi, the final day of the Ganpati festival, falls on September 17, and the Muslim community has chosen to hold Eid-e-Milad processions on September 18, allowing both festivals to be celebrated with enthusiasm. While Eid-e-Milad is likely to be observed on September 16, it remains subject to the moon’s position.

For the second consecutive year, the Muslim community has volunteered to reschedule its Eid-e-Milad procession to promote communal harmony. “Just like last year, the Muslim community has again decided to adjust their religious activities to allow for the smooth conduct of the immersion process.

This is a remarkable example of unity and coexistence between communities,” said Pankaj Dahane, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Zone 1). In Navi Mumbai, the Eid-e-Milad procession begins in Turbhe and passes through Vashi and Koparkhairane, concluding at Ghansoli Dargah.

Eid-e-Milad, also known as Eid-e-Milad-Un-Nabi, commemorates the birth of Prophet Muhammad, the revered leader who founded the Islamic faith. The event, typically observed on September 16, depends on the sighting of the moon and is celebrated with processions by Muslims worldwide.