COLOMBO ; I extend my heartfelt greetings on the occasion of “Eid al-Adha” (Hajj Festival), a significant religious celebration observed with deep faith by Muslims living across the world and throughout Sri Lanka.
Eid al-Adha, also known as the “Festival of Sacrifice,” is not merely a celebration, but a day that conveys a profound religious and social message to the world. On this day, we remember the unwavering faith in Allah, obedience, and noble sacrifice demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim (Peace Be Upon Him) and his family.
Likewise, the Hajj pilgrimage performed in the sacred land of Makkah by millions of pilgrims arriving from different parts of the world — dressed alike in white garments without distinctions of race, caste, or class — symbolizes the unity and equality of humanity to the entire world.
Islam teaches us on this noble day to share a portion of what we possess with others through charity, to relieve the hunger of the poor and needy, and to join hands in brotherhood and solidarity.
I pray that this Eid al-Adha becomes a blessed occasion filled with peace, happiness, prosperity, and divine grace for the entire Muslim community, including the Sri Lankan pilgrims engaged in Hajj worship this year in the holy land of Makkah.
Eid Mubarak!
Muneer Mulaffer
Deputy Minister of Religious and Cultural Affairs
