Message of Seerat-e-Mustafa ﷺ resonates across the city; poor civic arrangements and a political banner also spark discussion
Report: S. Munir
Aligarh: On the auspicious occasion of 12 Rabi-ul-Awwal, Aligarh witnessed an atmosphere filled with devotion and love for Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. Preparations for the Milad-un-Nabi processions began early in the morning, with processions taken out from around 35 different locations across the city.
The processions from the Sola Lines area reached Kailanagar through different routes. From Kailanagar, the central procession was led by Hazrat Allama Maulana Syed Jamal Ahmad Sahib Qibla, head of Madrasa Faizan-e-Mustafa. The procession passed through Kailanagar, Doodhpur and Medical Road before reaching Madrasa Faizan-e-Mustafa in Zohra Bagh via Nizami Pulia, where it concluded.
The city resonated with Durood-o-Salam, Naat, Manqabat and slogans expressing love and devotion for the Prophet ﷺ. Large numbers of devotees participated in the processions from different areas, including Raza Nagar, Zakir Nagar, Jeevangarh, Kailanagar, Doodhpur and several other localities.
Call to follow the teachings of the Prophet ﷺ
Speaking on the occasion, Maulana Syed Jamal Ahmad, head of Madrasa Faizan-e-Mustafa, said that love for the Prophet ﷺ is the essence of faith. Eid Milad-un-Nabi ﷺ is not merely a one-day celebration, but an occasion to remember the arrival of the great personality whose life offers guidance and mercy for all humanity.
He said the celebrations should not remain limited to decorations, processions and religious gatherings. People should also resolve to stay away from lies, hatred, injustice and dishonesty, while respecting parents, fulfilling the rights of neighbours and helping the needy.
He emphasized that the real message of Milad-un-Nabi ﷺ is to bring the teachings and character of the Prophet ﷺ into everyday life.
Ziyarat of Mo-e-Mubarak arranged
Following the conclusion of the procession, Ziyarat of Mo-e-Mubarak was arranged at Mustafa Jama Masjid and continued until the Isha prayer. A separate arrangement was also made for women after Maghrib prayer.
Procession also taken out from Khanqah Niazia
As per tradition, a Milad-un-Nabi procession was also taken out from Khanqah Niazia under the banner of Khanqah Niazia Al-Niaz Education and Welfare Society. The procession was led by Pir-e-Tariqat Dr. Mohammad Abbas Niazia.
The procession passed through Syed Colony, Tayyab Colony, Nagla Mallah, Golden Wali, Doodhpur, Medical Road and Zakariya Market before concluding at Khanqah Niazia.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Mohammad Abbas Niazia said that Eid Milad-un-Nabi ﷺ carries a timeless message for humanity. He said the Prophet ﷺ taught the values of justice, compassion, brotherhood, equality and respect for human dignity.
He added that the true spirit of Milad can only be achieved when the teachings of Seerat-e-Mustafa ﷺ are reflected in people’s character, conduct and dealings.
Police arrangements appreciated, civic conditions raise questions
During the processions, police and administrative arrangements were visible and personnel remained deployed to maintain law and order. However, the poor condition of roads along some routes raised questions over the preparations of the Municipal Corporation.
Several stretches of roads appeared incomplete, while an open pit on Medical Road posed a potential risk to devotees participating in the procession. With a large number of people moving through the area, residents expressed concern that such negligence could lead to an accident.
Local residents urged the concerned departments to inspect roads, lighting and other basic facilities before major religious and public gatherings and ensure proper arrangements.
Political banner becomes a talking point
A political banner displayed at Doodhpur crossing during the procession also attracted public attention. The banner carried greetings for Independence Day and Raksha Bandhan, but did not mention Eid Milad-un-Nabi ﷺ.
This led to discussion among some people about whether greetings for religious festivals are increasingly being viewed through the lens of political priorities and electoral calculations.
Some residents said political parties should demonstrate equal respect and sensitivity towards the religious and social festivals of all communities.
No official response from the concerned political party was available regarding the banner.
Overall, Aligarh witnessed Milad-un-Nabi ﷺ processions marked by devotion, love for the Prophet ﷺ and the message of Seerat-e-Mustafa ﷺ. At the same time, poor road conditions and the political banner became subjects of public discussion.