Muslims traditionally sacrifice sheep, goats, cows and camels to commemorate the Prophet Abraham’s readiness to sacrifice his son on God’s command on this day of Eid al-Adah also known as Bakrid.

The day begins with morning prayers. The celebrations continue with visits to friends and family, exchange of gifts and feasts. All Muslim festivals are celebrated with great zeal and fervor in India. Bakra Eid or Eid al-Adha holds a special place in the hearts of the Muslim community throughout the world and Indian Muslims are no exception to this zealous sentiment. When translated into English, the festival is also known as Feast of the Sacrifice.

Eid al-Adha commemorates when God appeared to Abraham — known as Ibrahim to Muslims — in a dream and asked him to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience. As Abraham was about to sacrifice his son, God stopped him and gave him a sheep to kill in place of his son.

To commemorate God’s test of Ibrahim, many Muslim families sacrifice an animal and share the meat with the poor. They also are required to donate to charities that benefit the poor.

This year, Eid al-Adha will begin on Monday, in most of the Muslim world. Because the festival depends on the sighting of the new moon, some countries may celebrate on Tuesday. Eid Mubarak (pronounced EED muh-BAR-ack) and Eid Saeed are routine greetings used during the observance to offer best wishes.

President of India Pranab Mukherjee wished everyone on the occasion of Bakrid