The Maharashtra government has announced a change in the Eid-e-Milad holiday date for the Mumbai district. Originally scheduled for September 16, the holiday has been shifted to September 18. This decision was made in response to a request from the local Muslim community, who wished to avoid a conflict with Anant Chaturdashi, the final day of the Ganesh Chaturthi festival, which falls on September 17.
In an official statement, the state government confirmed that the Muslim community voluntarily proposed the change. The reason behind this decision was to ensure that both Eid-e-Milad and Anant Chaturdashi, which involves the immersion of Ganesh idols (Ganpati Visarjan), could be celebrated smoothly without logistical challenges. Ganpati Visarjan is a major event in Mumbai, drawing large crowds across the city.
The Khilafat House put forward the suggestion to reschedule the Eid-e-Milad celebrations in Byculla, a prominent organization representing the Muslim community in the area. The proposal was accepted by state authorities, who recognized the community’s desire to make sure both festivals could be enjoyed to the fullest without overlapping.
In light of this, Maharashtra Congress leader Naseem Khan wrote a formal letter to Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, requesting that September 18 be officially declared as the new Eid-e-Milad holiday instead of September 16. He emphasized that by moving the processions to September 18, both festivals could be celebrated with joy and harmony. This change reflects the spirit of cooperation and mutual respect between communities in Mumbai, allowing for a peaceful celebration of two important religious occasions.
RBI has also informed that 18 September will be a public holiday under negotiable instruments act. This means public sector banks will be closed on 18 September.
