Observing Bakrid!

The festival honours the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son, as an act of submission to God’s command, before God then intervened, through his angel Jibra’il (Gabriel) and informs him that his sacrifice has already been accepted, by replacing a goat in his son’s place. 

The meat from the sacrificed animal is preferred to be divided into three parts. The family retains one third of the share; another third is given to relatives, friends and neighbours; and the remaining third is given to the poor and needy.

It is standard for Muslims to stamp the event by giving without end blessings, wearing new garments, and meeting family and companions. More seasoned relatives more often than not give kids cash on the occasion. In the period around Eid al-Adha, numerous Muslims go to Mecca for the Hajj journey (one of the five pillars of Islam). The Eid starts the day after Muslims on the Hajj slip from Mount Arafat. 

Food also forms an important part of the festival. The traditional dishes which are made on Bakrid are sewain, biryani, mutton kebabs, meat curries, breads etc.