Muslims across Kerala on Sunday celebrated Miladi Sherif or Nabi-Dinam as the birthday of Mohammed, the Prophet of Islam. He was born on the 20th April, 571 AD, the twelfth day of Rabi-ul-Awwal, which is the third month of the Muslim year. His death anniversary also falls on the same day.

In Kerala also Miladi Sherif is celebrated with great enthusiasm. The most important event of the day is the recitation of ‘Moulood’, a short biography of the Prophet written in Arabic language both in poetry and prose.

Recently in Kerala, a new practice has been associated with the the Miladi Sherif. During the first twelve days of the month, night lectures are arranged where the Muslim Ulemas deliver religious sermons and describes different aspects of the life of Prophet Muhammad and relate many astonishing facts about him. Thus the Muslim people have the opportunity of complete enlightenment about their Prophet. They come to know about his noble life and his valuable teachings.

During the celebration of the Miladi Sherif, a large number of poor people are supplied with food and other charitable activities are done by the Muslim Centres in certain parts of Kerala for example in Ponnani and other adjoining areas.

On this occasion of Miladi Sherif, the Muslims take out colourful processions in the towns and recite Thakbir. These processions finally meet at a certain common some place where public meetings are organized. Renowned, eloquent speakers who deal with the different aspects of the Prophet Muhammad’s life address the Muslim community. Non- Muslims are also allowed to attend such meetings.

(News agency)