Prophet of Islam’s birthday celebrated in Rochdale town centre

Local Muslims celebrated Mawlid An-Nabi, the birthday of the Prophet Muhammad

Roses and chocolates were handed out in Rochdale town centre on Saturday 23 September, as local Muslims celebrated Mawlid An-Nabi, the birthday of the Prophet Muhammad.

Mawlid in the City is a nationwide annual project which celebrates the momentous occasion, and aims to raise awareness of “the true message of Islam and Muslims.”

This year, the local event was organised by Aspire2Inspire Communities and The Young Khadims who packed the roses individually ready to distribute the following day.

Mawlid in the City was founded by As-Siraat 12 years ago and also takes place annually neighbouring towns such as Oldham and Manchester, as well as countries like Malaysia, Indonesia and this year in Pakistan. 

Jamal Aziz, of The Young Khadims, said: “It’s a great and innovative way of spreading peace, love and harmony and it’s the type of initiative that everyone can take part in without restrictions being in place.

“This year we saw people of all walks of life taking part, whether they were giving or receiving the roses, to the extent that we had people on mobility scooters taking part. Honestly, it’s something that you don’t see every day and it gives you the charisma to be more involved.

“A special thank you to all the volunteers from Aspire2Inspire and Young Khadims. Special Thanks also to those who came to take part, including Imam Irfan Chishti of Chishtiah Mosque; Brother Moheeb from Bilal Mosque; Brother Delwar from Shah Jalal Academy; Brother Raheem Akram from Akram Education; and all the rest of the volunteers.”