Eid-ul-Adha 2025: Jama Masjid Naib Imam Urges Devotees to Avoid Animal Sacrifice in Open or Public Spaces

Eid-ul-Adha 2025: Jama Masjid Naib Imam Urges Devotees to Avoid Animal Sacrifice in Open or Public Spaces (image: canva)

As Eid-ul-Adha 2025 approaches, Delhi’s Jama Masjid Naib Shahi Imam, Maulana Syed Shaban Bukhari, has issued an important appeal to the Muslim community. Emphasising the values of peace, respect, and cleanliness, he urged devotees to avoid animal sacrifices in open or public spaces such as roads, streets, or public grounds.

In his message, Maulana Bukhari reminded the community that Islam teaches compassion and respect for others’ beliefs. He stressed that animal sacrifices should only be performed in private spaces—like homes or designated enclosures—and not in public view. “Our actions should not hurt the sentiments of fellow citizens,” he said, calling for restraint and dignity in observance of this sacred ritual.

The Naib Imam strongly discouraged taking photos or recording videos of the sacrifice and uploading them to social media. He emphasized that while sacrifice is a significant religious obligation, it must be fulfilled with humility and privacy. “Islam is a religion of peace, and we must demonstrate this through our conduct,” he added.

He further stated that the act of Qurbani (sacrifice) must be performed in accordance with the rule of law and communal harmony—core values that are deeply rooted in Islamic teachings. Just like Holi and Diwali are celebrated with grace and decorum, Eid-ul-Adha should be observed with the same dignity.

Also known as Bakrid or the Festival of Sacrifice, Eid-ul-Adha commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son in obedience to God. Celebrated on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, this holy day is marked by prayers, charity, and the ritual sacrifice of animals.

Muslims wear new clothes, gather for prayers, and share the meat of the sacrificed animal with family, neighbours, and those in need.

Earlier, Eidgah Imam Maulana Khalid Rasheed Farangi Mahali also released a 12-point guideline for the festival. He instructed that animal blood should not flow into drains but rather be buried in raw soil to serve as natural fertiliser. He echoed the call to avoid taking or sharing images of the Qurbani ritual. As preparations begin, religious leaders are calling on the community to observe Eid-ul-Adha 2025 with sensitivity and responsibility, maintaining the true spirit of sacrifice while respecting public spaces and social harmony.

This approach not only honours the essence of the festival but also strengthens India’s long-standing tradition of unity in diversity.