Eid-ul-Adha, also called Bakrid, is more than just a festival. It’s a heartfelt expression of devotion, sacrifice, and compassion. Known as the “Festival of Sacrifice,” it stands as a symbol of unshakable faith and generosity towards fellow beings. In 2025, Bakrid will be observed on June 7 in India, following the moon sighting, while in countries like Saudi Arabia and Oman, the festival falls on June 6.
Though celebrated differently across regions, the emotion that brings together millions is the story of Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his beloved son in submission to God’s command. But is this festival only about the sacrifice? Not quite. There’s much more to know, and cherish, about Bakrid.
When is Eid-ul-Adha 2025? Why the dates vary across countries
Unlike fixed Gregorian calendar festivals, Eid-ul-Adha follows the Islamic lunar calendar . It is celebrated on the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah, the final month of the Islamic year. Since the Islamic calendar is moon-based, the exact date depends on the sighting of the crescent moon, which may differ from one country to another.
Here are the dates for Bakrid 2025 in some countries:
India, Nigeria, Morocco, Bangladesh, Malaysia, New Zealand: June 7, 2025
Saudi Arabia, Oman, Indonesia: June 6, 2025
The story behind the sacrifice
Many know the tale of Prophet Ibrahim’s (Abraham) dream, one where he was commanded by Allah to sacrifice what he loved most. That happened to be his son, Ismail. While this may sound difficult to grasp, it was a test of absolute submission and faith.
Just as Prophet Ibrahim was about to act on the command, Allah replaced Ismail with a ram. The message was clear—it's the intention and faith that matter the most. The ritual sacrifice today is symbolic, echoing the spirit of obedience and devotion.
While the common belief highlights the act of animal sacrifice, the deeper truth is that the festival teaches selflessness, surrender to divine will, and sharing blessings with those who have less.
How is Bakrid celebrated?
Bakrid morning begins with a special prayer at mosques or large open grounds. The air is filled with warmth, greetings of “Eid Mubarak” echo in neighbourhoods, and people wear their best traditional clothes.
The main ritual, Qurbani or sacrifice, involves slaughtering an animal such as a goat, sheep, or buffalo. But it’s not just about the ritual. The meat is divided into three parts:
One part for the family
One part for relatives and friends
One part for the poor and needy
This practice isn’t just a tradition; it’s a reminder of social responsibility. Many families even skip the feast for themselves and donate the entire share to those who rarely get to eat meat.
Recently, many are also opting to donate money to trusted organisations that carry out Qurbani in underprivileged areas. This shift reflects the festival’s evolution with changing lifestyles, yet staying true to its core message—charity and compassion.
It’s easy to see Bakrid only through the lens of religion, but its teachings are far beyond faith. The spirit of empathy, generosity, and community service is universal.
In countries like India, Bakrid often becomes an opportunity for inter-faith respect and shared joy. Neighbours greet one another, friends are invited to feasts, and the aroma of special dishes like biryani, korma, and sheer khurma fills the streets.
The festival also coincides with the Hajj pilgrimage, one of the five pillars of Islam. While only a few get the opportunity to travel to Mecca, many choose to fast on the Day of Arafah (the day before Bakrid), considered highly spiritual.
Islam lays down detailed guidelines on the treatment of animals, emphasising that no cruelty should be involved, and the process should be swift and painless.
Qurbani is not compulsory for everyone. Only those who are financially capable are expected to perform it. In fact, even donating for Qurbani through a charity counts as fulfilling the obligation.
Traditions that warm the heart
Every household has its own rituals and stories tied to Bakrid. For some, it’s the memory of preparing the family recipe passed down through generations. For others, it’s watching little ones recite verses or tag along to the prayer ground in crisp new attire.
Some families go the extra mile to feed an entire locality, while others organise clothes or book distribution drives in the name of Qurbani. In villages, it’s common to see children decorating the sacrificial animals with ornaments and flowers.
These little gestures, though often unnoticed, are the soul of the festival. Bakrid, at its heart, isn’t about grand celebrations but about quiet acts of love, remembrance, and sharing.
FAQs about Eid-ul-Adha (Bakrid) 2025
When is Bakrid 2025 in India?
Bakrid will be celebrated on June 7, 2025, in India. What is the meaning of Eid-ul-Adha?
It means the Festival of Sacrifice, honoring Prophet Ibrahim’s devotion to God. Is sacrifice compulsory for everyone?
No, it’s only for those who are financially capable. Can the sacrifice be done on all three days?
Yes, Qurbani can be done on the 10th, 11th, or 12th of Dhul Hijjah. Is charity necessary during Bakrid?
Yes, sharing a portion of the meat with the needy is a vital part of the festival.
Though celebrated differently across regions, the emotion that brings together millions is the story of Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his beloved son in submission to God’s command. But is this festival only about the sacrifice? Not quite. There’s much more to know, and cherish, about Bakrid.
When is Eid-ul-Adha 2025? Why the dates vary across countries
Unlike fixed Gregorian calendar festivals, Eid-ul-Adha follows the Islamic lunar calendar . It is celebrated on the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah, the final month of the Islamic year. Since the Islamic calendar is moon-based, the exact date depends on the sighting of the crescent moon, which may differ from one country to another.
Here are the dates for Bakrid 2025 in some countries:
India, Nigeria, Morocco, Bangladesh, Malaysia, New Zealand: June 7, 2025
Saudi Arabia, Oman, Indonesia: June 6, 2025
The story behind the sacrifice
Many know the tale of Prophet Ibrahim’s (Abraham) dream, one where he was commanded by Allah to sacrifice what he loved most. That happened to be his son, Ismail. While this may sound difficult to grasp, it was a test of absolute submission and faith.
Just as Prophet Ibrahim was about to act on the command, Allah replaced Ismail with a ram. The message was clear—it's the intention and faith that matter the most. The ritual sacrifice today is symbolic, echoing the spirit of obedience and devotion.
While the common belief highlights the act of animal sacrifice, the deeper truth is that the festival teaches selflessness, surrender to divine will, and sharing blessings with those who have less.
How is Bakrid celebrated?
Bakrid morning begins with a special prayer at mosques or large open grounds. The air is filled with warmth, greetings of “Eid Mubarak” echo in neighbourhoods, and people wear their best traditional clothes.
The main ritual, Qurbani or sacrifice, involves slaughtering an animal such as a goat, sheep, or buffalo. But it’s not just about the ritual. The meat is divided into three parts:
One part for the family
One part for relatives and friends
One part for the poor and needy
This practice isn’t just a tradition; it’s a reminder of social responsibility. Many families even skip the feast for themselves and donate the entire share to those who rarely get to eat meat.
Recently, many are also opting to donate money to trusted organisations that carry out Qurbani in underprivileged areas. This shift reflects the festival’s evolution with changing lifestyles, yet staying true to its core message—charity and compassion.
It’s easy to see Bakrid only through the lens of religion, but its teachings are far beyond faith. The spirit of empathy, generosity, and community service is universal.
In countries like India, Bakrid often becomes an opportunity for inter-faith respect and shared joy. Neighbours greet one another, friends are invited to feasts, and the aroma of special dishes like biryani, korma, and sheer khurma fills the streets.
The festival also coincides with the Hajj pilgrimage, one of the five pillars of Islam. While only a few get the opportunity to travel to Mecca, many choose to fast on the Day of Arafah (the day before Bakrid), considered highly spiritual.
Islam lays down detailed guidelines on the treatment of animals, emphasising that no cruelty should be involved, and the process should be swift and painless.
Qurbani is not compulsory for everyone. Only those who are financially capable are expected to perform it. In fact, even donating for Qurbani through a charity counts as fulfilling the obligation.
Traditions that warm the heart
Every household has its own rituals and stories tied to Bakrid. For some, it’s the memory of preparing the family recipe passed down through generations. For others, it’s watching little ones recite verses or tag along to the prayer ground in crisp new attire.
Some families go the extra mile to feed an entire locality, while others organise clothes or book distribution drives in the name of Qurbani. In villages, it’s common to see children decorating the sacrificial animals with ornaments and flowers.
These little gestures, though often unnoticed, are the soul of the festival. Bakrid, at its heart, isn’t about grand celebrations but about quiet acts of love, remembrance, and sharing.
FAQs about Eid-ul-Adha (Bakrid) 2025
Bakrid will be celebrated on June 7, 2025, in India.
It means the Festival of Sacrifice, honoring Prophet Ibrahim’s devotion to God.
No, it’s only for those who are financially capable.
Yes, Qurbani can be done on the 10th, 11th, or 12th of Dhul Hijjah.
Yes, sharing a portion of the meat with the needy is a vital part of the festival.
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