The twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad are decorated with green lights, flags, and banners ahead of Eid Milad-un-Nabi (PBUH), as Muslims prepare to commemorate the Prophet Muhammad’s birth.
The twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad are adorned with LED lights, green flags, and calligraphic banners bearing Marhaba Ya Mustafa (PBUH)
as preparations for Eid Milad-un-Nabi (PBUH) accelerate. People buy more in these days than in normal months,
said Muhammad Aslam, a shopkeeper in Rawalpindi’s Raja Bazaar, adding that his business sees a surge in sales during the season.
Festive Displays and Community Involvement
Residents have taken to decorating their homes and streets, with some communities organizing processions and Mehfils. In Saddar, Rawalpindi, young volunteers assisted shopkeepers in setting up banners and lights, while Ayesha bibi, a G-6 resident, shared that her neighborhood has upheld the tradition of illuminating streets for 15 years. The whole city looks beautiful at night. It brings people together,
she said. Similar scenes unfolded in Islamabad’s Melody Market and F-10 Markaz, where festive decorations dominated the landscape.
Volunteers and local businesses have played a key role in the celebrations. In Karachi, residents gathered to admire illuminated streets ahead of the event, while Lahore saw processions featuring torches and religious flags. The Government of Pakistan declared a public holiday for the occasion, with federal and provincial capitals hosting gun salutes to mark the day.
Religious Zeal and Cultural Significance
The celebrations are deeply rooted in religious devotion, with participants emphasizing the spiritual significance of the occasion. We decorate our shops every year to express our love for the Holy Prophet (PBUH),
said Muhammad Aslam, who described the event as not just business, it’s devotion.
Residents also highlighted the communal aspect of the festival, with families gathering to recite Naat and distribute sweets. It also spreads the message of peace and unity,
noted Zain Ali, a college student in Rawalpindi.
In Faisalabad, Jamia Masjid was illuminated with colorful lights, while Karachi’s streets buzzed with activity as vendors sold balloons and decorative items. We stock extra lights, flags and Milad banners,
said a shopkeeper, underscoring the commercial focus of the season. The celebrations also attract families with young children, who eagerly await the festive atmosphere. Children especially wait for this time,
said Ayesha bibi, describing the joy of the season.
Official Recognition and Security Measures
Government authorities have taken steps to ensure the celebrations proceed smoothly. District administrations in Rawalpindi and Islamabad have initiated cleanliness drives and deployed security personnel for central processions and gatherings. The public holiday, announced by the government, underscores the event’s significance as a national observance.
In Karachi, families visited illuminated streets, while Lahore’s processions featured religious flags and torches.
For now, the twin cities and other regions remain immersed in the festive spirit, with residents and businesses alike embracing the traditions of Eid Milad-un-Nabi (PBUH).
