Telangana govt announces holidays for Milad-un-Nabi, Ganesh Chaturthi.
The Telangana government has declared holidays for both Milad-un-Nabi and Ganesh Chaturthi. While Eid-e-Milad is officially listed in the state calendar, its date may be subject to change based on the sighting of the crescent moon, which traditionally determines the Islamic lunar calendar months. This variability means that the exact date of the holiday could shift slightly. Ganesh Chaturthi, celebrated by Hindus, is fixed according to the Gregorian calendar and will be observed as scheduled. The announcement aims to accommodate the diverse cultural and religious practices of the state’s residents, ensuring celebrations for both festivals.
In a recent announcement, the Telangana government has declared holidays for two major festivals occurring this month: Milad-un-Nabi and Ganesh Chaturthi. Both festivals hold significant cultural and religious importance, and the government’s decision to grant holidays reflects its commitment to honoring the diverse traditions of its residents.
Milad-un-Nabi, which commemorates the birth of the Prophet Muhammad, is observed on Rabi’ al-Awwal 12 according to the Islamic lunar calendar. This year, the Telangana government has scheduled the holiday for Milad-un-Nabi on September 16. However, this date may be subject to change depending on the sighting of the crescent moon, which is a traditional method used to determine the precise timing of Islamic festivals. If the crescent moon is sighted today, the celebration will take place on September 16; otherwise, it will be observed on September 17. The variability in the holiday’s date is a common practice in Islamic tradition, reflecting the lunar calendar’s reliance on moon sightings.
Ganesh Chaturthi, a Hindu festival dedicated to the worship of Lord Ganesha, is fixed on September 7 this year. The Telangana government has declared this day as a holiday to allow residents to celebrate this auspicious occasion. Ganesh Chaturthi marks the beginning of a period of festivities and worship, culminating in Ganesh Visarjan, or the immersion of Ganesh idols, which is scheduled for September 17. Despite the holiday on September 7, the Visarjan ceremony will occur a few days later, and preparations for the event are already underway.
Given the overlap of these two major festivals, there have been adjustments in Hyderabad’s scheduling to accommodate both celebrations. Notably, the Milad-un-Nabi procession, which is an annual event in Hyderabad, has been rescheduled due to the Ganesh Visarjan taking place on September 17. This year, the Milad-un-Nabi procession will be held on September 19 to ensure that both festivals can be celebrated with the necessary attention and respect.
In preparation for the festivities, Hyderabad Commissioner of Police Kothakota Srinivas Reddy has issued instructions to ensure a smooth and secure celebration. On Monday, the Commissioner emphasized the importance of readiness among police officials and other departments. He stressed the need for punctuality, honesty, and strong work ethics, as well as showing empathy and improving the public image of the police department. These measures are intended to facilitate effective management of the increased activities and large gatherings associated with both Milad-un-Nabi and Ganesh Chaturthi.
The celebrations will not only involve the public but also affect educational institutions across Telangana. Schools, colleges, and other educational establishments are expected to announce holidays for both Milad-un-Nabi and Ganesh Chaturthi, allowing students and staff to participate in the festivities and spend time with their families.
Overall, the Telangana government’s decision to declare holidays for these significant festivals demonstrates a commitment to celebrating the rich cultural and religious diversity of the state. The adjustments made to accommodate the overlap of the two festivals reflect a practical approach to managing public celebrations and ensuring that all communities can observe their respective traditions with due respect and enthusiasm. As the festivals approach, both the public and authorities are preparing to celebrate in a manner that honors the traditions and values of each community.