For anyone who doesn’t know, Mawlid or Mawlid al-nabi al-Sharif which literally translates to the “birth of the prophet” is an annual celebration of the birthday of the Prophet Muhammad (saw). Muslims from different denominations globally celebrate this occasion in style every year. It is a celebration that occurs globally in the third month of the Islamic Calender during Rabi’ al-awwal, celebrated by those from the Sunni sect on the 12th Rabi’ al-awwal for those from the Shia sect on the 17th of Rabi’ al-awwal. It was declared as an official holiday by the Ottomans in 1588 which at the time was named, Mevlid Kandil. Special prayers are made, and minarets are illuminated in this process.

There are still many Muslims who do not agree with this practice, some denominations deeming it to be bid’aa, an innovation of the religion and a practice that was never encouraged by the prophet Muhammad (saw).

Qasīdat al-Burda is the name of an ancient poem, which is an ode to the praise of the Prophet (saw) recited on this momentous occasion that unravels the light, love, and reverence of his life. Muslims gather in circles, reciting the poem as a sign of honouring ‘the beloved’ for his journey and character.

https://twitter.com/eemanabbasi/status/963530440551346179

https://twitter.com/nilo_sorathia/status/1087138458009853952

A verse from the Qaṣīdat al-Burda, displayed on the wall of Imaam Al-Busiri's grave! pic.twitter.com/JzOBj21SFx

— Runinspiredbyadil💎 (@adilgora30) May 27, 2013

Here is a Twitter and Instagram compilation of what Muslims from across the globe got up to on the day of the Mawlid.

https://twitter.com/DaysofPalestine/status/1193172054083883008

Mawlid celebrations in Pakistan ❤️ pic.twitter.com/MbJ8KYAKp7

— Mu’minah (@talibatulilm98) November 11, 2019

https://www.instagram.com/p/B40IZaPFANy/

https://www.instagram.com/p/B4xf3rziotn/

https://www.instagram.com/p/B4u6hNgAfi5/

Earlier today at Medina Baye.
We pray for a successful Maulid. pic.twitter.com/IBmthBnmMS

— Fayda World (@FaydaWorld) November 8, 2019

https://twitter.com/Jeejay7/status/1192297636000190464