Bakrid 2026: When is Eid al-Adha in India? Is it on May 27 or May 28

Eid al-Adha, also known as Bakrid or Eid-ul-Zuha, is one of the most important festivals in Islam. This year, the festival will be celebrated in most parts of India on Thursday, May 28, 2026, after the Dhul Hijjah crescent moon was not sighted as initially expected. The development prompted several state governments and the Centre to revise their holiday notifications.

The festival's date is determined by the Islamic lunar calendar, meaning the exact day depends on the sighting of the crescent moon marking the beginning of Dhul Hijjah, the final month of the Islamic year.

Why was there confusion over the date?

Earlier estimates had suggested that Bakrid could fall on May 27. However, religious bodies later confirmed that the Dhul Hijjah crescent moon had not been sighted, resulting in the festival being observed a day later in most parts of the country.

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Following the revised moon-sighting announcements, the Central government shifted its Eid-ul-Zuha holiday from May 27 to May 28 for administrative offices in Delhi and New Delhi. Several states also updated their holiday schedules accordingly.

The personnel ministry on 22 May in a statement said, "Central government administrative offices located at Delhi/New Delhi shall remain closed on 28th May, 2026, on account of Id-ul-Zuha (Bakrid) (in place of 27th May, 2026)."

While most of India is expected to celebrate Bakrid on May 28, some regions, including Jammu and Kashmir, may observe the festival on May 27 based on local moon-sighting traditions.

What is the significance of Eid al-Adha?

Eid al-Adha, often referred to as the "Festival of Sacrifice", commemorates the devotion and faith of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham).

According to Islamic tradition, Prophet Ibrahim was willing to sacrifice his son Ismail in obedience to God's command. Before the sacrifice could take place, God provided an animal to be sacrificed instead. The festival honours this act of faith, obedience and submission to divine will.

The occasion coincides with the annual Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca, one of the five pillars of Islam, making it one of the holiest periods in the Islamic calendar.

How is Bakrid celebrated?

The day begins with special congregational prayers held at mosques and open prayer grounds.

Many families then perform kurbani (ritual sacrifice), following Islamic guidelines. The meat is traditionally divided into portions for family members, relatives and those in need, reflecting the festival's emphasis on charity and community welfare.

The festival is also marked by family gatherings, festive meals, charitable donations and the exchange of greetings among friends and loved ones.

Is Bakrid a public holiday in India?

Yes. Bakrid is a gazetted public holiday in India, and government offices, banks, schools and many businesses remain closed for the observance. This year, the official holiday in most parts of the country will be observed on May 28 following the revised moon-sighting announcements. As always, local observances may vary depending on regional moon sightings and announcements by religious authorities