Milad-Un-Nabi or Mawlid, is a public holiday in Sri Lanka that marks the birthday of Prophet Muhammad. The holiday is observed by the Muslim community in Sri Lanka which constitutes approximately 9.7% of the country's population. The day is remembered as a time of reflection, prayer, and unity for the Muslim community. Families come together to celebrate and share meals. Mosques are illuminated, and streets are decorated with festive lights.
The holiday is marked by a variety of activities. Many people take part in spiritual singing, storytelling sessions about the Prophet's life, and communal meals. Processions in the streets and other public places are common as well. Sunni Muslims believe that Prophet Muhammad was born on the 12th day of the third month of the Islamic calendar, while Shi’a Muslims celebrate it on the 17th. Despite the difference in dates, the underlying purpose of the celebrations remains the same – to rejoice the birth and life of the Holy Prophet.
In Sri Lanka, various religious rituals are conducted in mosques and prayer halls. Children are often told stories about the Prophet's life, his teachings, and his contributions to Islam. The traditions of Milad-Un-Nabi in Sri Lanka do not differ much from other countries, although the festivities may vary depending on the cultural background of the celebrants. Despite the religious disparities among the island's population, the spirit of pluralism shines through during Milad-Un-Nabi, highlighting Sri Lanka’s rich cultural diversity.