Today, Muslims around the world are celebrating Maulud Nabiy, the birthday of the Islamic Prophet Muhammad. Aside from the, Eidul-fitri and Eidul-Adha, Maulid-Nabiyy is the next most celebrated and most popular event among muslims the world over.
With the exception of Saudi Arabia and a few other countries, 12th Rabiul-Awwal, which represents the birth day of Propeht Muhammad is reckoned with as a public holiday to many nations.
Mawlid is celebrated in most Muslim countries, and in other countries where Muslims have a presence, such as India, Britain, Russia and Canada
Where Mawlid is celebrated in a carnival manner, large street processions are held and homes or mosques are decorated. Charity and food is distributed, and stories about the life of Muhammad are narrated with recitation of poetry by children.
Saudi Arabia is the only Muslim country where Mawlid is not an official public holiday. Participation in the ritual celebration of popular Islamic holidays is seen as an expression of the Islamic revival.
Durbar festivals are celebrated at the culmination of Eid al-Maulud. Durbars have been held for hundreds of years in the northern states, notably the Kano Emirate, and gave an opportunity for conscripts to the army to display their skills as horsemen.
Recently however an attack on the Emir of Kano, has led to the temporary suspension of this years Durbar, which some fear, may be a move to reduce the actions of insurgents in the state.
The horsemen are dressed in vividly colored costumes, with period weapons, and are accompanied by a drum corps and musicians.[2] Modern Durbar festivals include prayers at the start of the day, followed by parades in town squares or in front of the local Emir’s palace.
