Bakrid 2026: When is Eid al-Adha in India and Saudi Arabia? Muslims in Kashmir celebrate May 27 | Today’s news
Muslims around the world are preparing to celebrate Eid al-Adha, one of the most important holidays in Islam. Also referred to as Bakrid, Eid-ul-Azha, Bakra Eid, Bakhreid, Eid-ul-Zuha, Eid al-Adha or the Feast of Sacrifice, this sacred occasion symbolizes devotion, selflessness and compassion. Eid al-Adha falls on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, the last month of the lunar year.
Let’s check the confirmed dates of Eid al-Adha 2026 in India and Saudi Arabia.
Eid al-Adha 2026: When is Eid al-Adha or Bakrid?
In Saudi Arabia, Eid al-Adha will be celebrated on May 27. In India, Muslims commemorate the festival a day later, on May 28. However, in Kashmir, Eid al-Adha will be celebrated on May 27, the same day it is celebrated in Saudi Arabia.
In India, Muslims commemorate the festival a day later, on May 28.(Pexel)
This year, Saudi Arabia has confirmed the sighting of the Zil Hajj crescent moon on Sunday, May 17, marking the start of a new Islamic month. Consequently, Monday 18 May 2026 was observed as the first day of Zil Hajj and Eid al-Adha will accordingly be on 27 May, which is the 10th day of Zil Hajj.
Read also | Eid Al-Adha 2026: Date, Meaning, History and Significance of Bakrid
In India, the crescent moon was not sighted on May 17, which meant that May 19, 2026 was the first day of Zil Hajj in India, and Eid al-Adha will accordingly be on May 28, which is the 10th day of Zil Hajj.
However, in Kashmir, local clerics said that the crescent was sighted on 17 May and according to 18 May 2026, it was observed as the first day of Zil Hajj. So Eid al-Adha will be celebrated by Muslims in Kashmir on May 27, Wednesday, which is the 10th day of Zil Hajj.
Read also | How is Bakrid different from Eid-al Fitr?
The center declares May 28 a public holiday
All central government administrative offices across India will remain closed on May 28 due to Eid al-Adha.
In a statement issued on May 22, the Ministry of Personnel said, “Central Administrative Offices in Delhi/New Delhi will remain closed on May 28, 2026 on account of Id-ul-Zuha (Bakrid), instead of May 27, 2026.
Read also | Adityanath’s warning against namaz on roads ahead of Eid-ul-Adha
Eid dishes
Bakr-Id feasts commonly include dishes like mutton biryani, mutton korma, mutton keema and bhuna kaleji. Popular desserts prepared during the festival include pure khurma and kheer.
Bakr-Id feasts commonly include dishes like mutton biryani, mutton korma, mutton keema (Pexels)
Hajj Pilgrimage and Spiritual Significance
The Hajj pilgrimage also takes place during the same period. The celebration of Eid al-Adha through animal sacrifice is closely associated with the idea of self-sacrifice and gratitude to Allah.
It symbolizes one’s willingness to give up worldly attachments and remain committed to the right path. The ritual reflects the belief that Muslims often sacrifice things important to them throughout their lives for a greater purpose.
