Muslims divided on deferred celebration date

Expressing dismay at the All India Khilafat Committee's decision choosing September 18 for Eid Miladun-Nabi processions, Haji Ali and Mahim dargahs, and Sufi groups have declared that they won't take part in the event.

- Manoj Ramakrishnan

They preferred the date of September 19. Falling on September 16, Eid Milad-unNabi signifies the birth of Prophet Muhammad.

However, the decision to postpone the celebrations was taken so that they don't clash with Ganeshotsav.

Saturday, a meeting was held in this regard at the Khilafat Committee's Byculla office.

On The date of September 18 was chosen after a majority of the groups present at the meeting agreed that the processions should be held a day after Ganpati visarjan, said the committee. "Only five hands were raised in favour of September 19. So who do we go with? Obviously with the flow," said Committee Chairman Sarfaraz Arzu.