In a move to promote communal harmony, the Maharashtra government has rescheduled the official Eid-e-Milad holiday in Mumbai from September 16 to September 18. This decision was made following a request from the local Muslim community, which opted to hold its Eid processions on September 18 instead of September 16 to avoid clashing with Anant Chaturdashi, the final day of the Ganesh festival on September 17.

The government release noted that local district collectors have been authorized to make similar changes to the Eid holiday schedule in other districts based on the situation, as reported by PTI. This flexible approach aims to ensure that both festivals are celebrated smoothly without causing any inconvenience to either community.

Maharashtra Congress leader Naseem Khan had previously appealed to Chief Minister Eknath Shinde to declare September 18 as the holiday for Eid-e-Milad. "Anant Chaturdashi falls on September 17, and members of the Muslim community have decided to take out Eid-e-Milad processions on September 18 so that both festivals can be celebrated with pomp and gaiety," he stated in his letter.

This is the second consecutive year that the Muslim community has voluntarily adjusted its religious celebrations to accommodate the Ganesh festival, reflecting a spirit of unity. Deputy Commissioner of Police (Zone 1) Pankaj Dahane remarked, "It is a remarkable display of unity and co-existence by the communities."

In Navi Mumbai, the Eid-e-Milad procession traditionally starts from Turbhe and passes through Vashi and Koparkhairane before culminating at Ghansoli Dargah. Eid-e-Milad, also known as Eid-e-Milad-Un-Nabi, commemorates the birth of Prophet Muhammad and is celebrated by Muslims around the world with processions and other festivities.

The government's decision highlights the collaborative efforts of different communities in Maharashtra, reinforcing a message of peace and mutual respect during the festive season.