Calls for peace, processions, charity mark Prophet’s birth anniversary

Nagpur: Muslims celebrated Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi, the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad, by taking out processions in different areas, playing naat (paeans to the Prophet) on loudspeakers, and hosting community feast on Sunday. Some restricted themselves to prayers and calls for peace as per the teachings of the Prophet.
Many processions, brimming with kids and youths dressed in traditional kurta-pyjama and safa (head cover) from West and East Nagpur moved towards Mominpura, slowing down vehicular traffic at different points.
Religious and social organisations held sermons and blood donation camps to mark the event. Over 1,000 units of blood were donated in different camps in Mominpura and other areas.
A cleric from Uttar Pradesh was invited to deliver talk on the life and teachings of the Prophet.
Syed Ashad Rashidi, head of Madrassa Shahi Moradabad, said, “I feel if all, not just Muslims, follow the teachings of the Prophet, then the world shall become a peaceful place. All differences would be over among humans. His teachings shall guide us to stay united and in perennial peace.”
Asked about loud celebrations, Rashidi said, “A tradition has been going on but Muslims need to pay more attention to their lives. Real love and respect for the Prophet can only be shown by embracing his teachings in our lives.”
Hamid Qureshi, vice-president, Centre for Social Research and Empowerment, said, “Prophet Muhammad is the last messenger of God in the chain of Prophets sent to guide mankind throughout the world in different areas, nations and linguistic populations. God revealed on him the message to mankind known as Quran. Some of the fundamental teachings of the Prophet through Quran tell us that there is no deity except one God. He is ever living, omnipotent and omnipresent. A day will come, which will be the last day of the entire universe, and every living being will be resurrected to submit the account to almighty God. Those who lived life as per the wish of the God and lived ethical and morally good life will be rewarded with paradise,” he said.
Majid Parekh, regional secretary, Society for Communal Harmony at New Delhi, said, “The natural tendency of vengeful violence among humans can surely be suppressed by spreading love in the society. This divine teaching of Prophet Muhammad encouraged liberty, fraternity and equality in human society. The Prophet was also known for reconciling people at war and individuals in conflict.
“Qist” (Arabic word) was his mission which encompasses justice, fairness and respect for human rights. It is high time we create a common goal for the peace movement, so that the prophetic mission of encouraging people to establish justice continues in future. Let’s not be indulged in personality cult. Let’s shun violence in his name and keep his teachings alive,” said Parekh.