Maharashtra government shifts Eid-e-Milad holiday to September 18 in Mumbai, here’s why

the Central Railway (CR) authorities have announced 22 additional suburban train services from September 14 to 18

The Maharashtra government has rescheduled the Eid-e-Milad holiday in Mumbai district from September 16 to September 18. This decision was made following a request from the local Muslim community to avoid a clash with Anant Chaturdashi, the final day of Ganesh Chaturthi, which falls on September 17.

An official statement from the state government confirmed the change, noting that the local Muslim community had voluntarily chosen to shift their Eid-e-Milad processions to September 18 to ensure that both festivals could be celebrated without logistical issues. Ganpati Visarjan, the immersion of Ganesh idols, typically draws massive crowds across Mumbai, making it one of the city’s most significant events.

The Khilafat House in Byculla, representing the Muslim community, proposed the change, which was accepted by the state authorities. In light of this, Maharashtra Congress leader Naseem Khan wrote to Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, urging him to officially declare September 18 as the Eid-e-Milad holiday instead of September 16, aligning with the community's decision.

“Anant Chaturdashi falls on September 17, and members of the Muslim community have decided to take out Eid-e-Milad processions on September 18 so that both festivals can be celebrated with pomp and gaiety,” Khan said in his letter to the Chief Minister.

Eid-e-Milad, marking the birth of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), is traditionally observed on September 16, depending on the sighting of the moon. However, this year marks the second consecutive time that the Muslim community in Mumbai has chosen to voluntarily reschedule its processions, prioritising communal harmony and smooth celebrations for all.

"Just like last year, the Muslim community has once again demonstrated unity and coexistence by adjusting their religious activities to ensure the Ganpati immersion process proceeds without any hindrance," said Deputy Commissioner of Police (Zone 1), Pankaj Dahane.

District collectors in other regions of Maharashtra have also been given the discretion to adjust the Eid-e-Milad holiday based on local conditions and similar logistical concerns.

Meanwhile, in Navi Mumbai, the Eid-e-Milad procession, which traditionally starts in Turbhe and winds through Vashi and Koparkhairane before concluding at Ghansoli Dargah, will also take place on September 18.

In a related effort to manage the surge in crowds during Ganpati Visarjan, the Central Railway (CR) authorities have announced 22 additional suburban train services from September 14 to 18. Of these, 20 will operate on the main line, while two will run on the harbor line, ensuring smoother travel for the thousands of devotees expected to participate in the festival.

(With inputs from PTI)