Eid-ul-Adha, also known as Bakrid, Bakra Eid, is a global festival of sacrifice, observed with immense grandeur and fervor on the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah - the twelfth and final month in the Islamic lunar calendar. It represents the values of faith, obedience, and mercy, incorporating prayers, joyful feasting, and gift exchanges.
Following Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan, this festival is the second major Islamic celebration that unites people in a spirit of unity and devotion. “Eid” means “feast,” which is celebrated based on the moon sighting. Eid al-Adha, also known as Id al-Kabir or Aïd El Kebir, signifies “Greater Eid.” Variations include Id al-Qurban, Eid Qurban, and Kurban Bayram.
Eid al-Adha traces its origins to the era of Prophet Ibrahim. According to the Quran, he received a divine command to sacrifice his son, Ismail, to demonstrate his love and devotion to Allah. To prove his obedience and his willingness to follow God’s command without question, Ibrahim and his son embarked on the ritual. Just before the sacrifice, an angel appeared, advising the Prophet not to proceed, as God acknowledged his loyalty. Instead of Ismail, a ram was provided for sacrifice, marking Ibrahim’s passing of Allah’s test. This event led to the tradition of animal sacrifice during Eid al-Adha. Hence, the Eid-ul-Adha festival is also known as Bakra Eid, translating to the “goat festival.” “Bakr” or “Bakri” in Urdu refers to goat, while “Eid” originates from the Arabic word for festival or feast.
The tale of Ibrahim (Abraham in Biblical tradition) and his readiness to sacrifice his cherished son transcends Islam, appearing in the Old Testament of the Christian Bible and the Hebrew Bible (Tanakh). However, there’s a divergence: Christians and Jews believe it was Abraham’s other son, Isaac, who was destined for sacrifice.
This festival carries immense spiritual significance, adorned with diverse rituals and traditions. Muslims begin the day by rising early, bathing, and adorning themselves in splendid attire, symbolizing joy and celebration. The morning commences with communal prayer (Eid Salaah), followed by special Eid prayers and a sermon at the local mosque. Takbir, the declaration of God’s greatness, is recited, prompting reflection on Ibrahim’s story. Following the prayer, people embrace and wish each other “Eid Mubarak,” fostering unity, love, and harmony, promoting togetherness.
During a tradition called Qurbani, Muslims sacrifice an animal—often a male goat, sheep, cow, or camel—as a symbol of Ibrahim’s obedience to God. Only healthy animals of a certain age can be used, and they must be slaughtered according to Islamic law (halal). The meat is divided into three parts: one for relatives and friends, one for personal consumption, and one for the needy, promoting generosity and compassion. The festival’s essence is ensuring no one goes without food on Eid al-Adha.
Eid al-Adha unites families and communities in joy, gratitude, and charity. Many donate Eidi, money gifted on Eid days, to charity. This tradition reflects sacrificing personal desires for the well-being of others, reflecting Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his beloved son.
Eid-ul-Adha Food
Food is key to Eid-ul-Adha, offering a range of delicacies. Muslim women start early preparations, crafting delicacies. Eid al-Adha cuisine traditionally leans towards savory dishes, earning it the nickname “salty Eid,” unlike the “sweet Eid” or “Sugar Feast” of Eid al-Fitr. The meat from the sacrificed animal is a focal point in Eid al-Adha dishes. Worldwide, Eid al-Adha dishes include Biryani from South Asia, Maqluba in the Middle East, and Couscous bidaoui belghanmi from Morocco.
Food dishes include Bhuna Kaleji - fried, roasted, or grilled liver of the sacrificed goat with savory spices. Often served as breakfast, it’s cooked with onions, ginger, garlic, and green chilies to a melt-in-your-mouth perfection, pairing wonderfully with naan or rumali roti. Keema that features minced mutton or chicken cooked with traditional spices. Chicken or Mutton Korma presents fried meat pieces in a savory, creamy gravy. For starters, Chapli Kebabs offer luxurious patties of grilled or braised minced meat, typically mutton.
Meethi Seviyan, an integral part of Eid festivities. Thick vermicelli is cooked in milk with dried fruits, cardamom powder, and saffron, creating a delightful flavour. No celebration is complete without a sweet drink. In Arabian cuisine, a blend of milk with pitted dates and banana creates a delicious finale to the Bakrid feast.
