KATHMANDU: Bakr Eid, one of the most celebrated festivals of the Muslims, is being observed throughout the country beginning today. The festival commemorates the rare sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim.

Also known as Eid-Al-Adha, it is celebrated on the tenth day of the Arabian month Dhu'l Hijja. The festival coincides with the Haj pilgrimage in Mecca and would be celebrated for three days. During the festival, the Muslims sacrifice goats, camel and buffaloes to Allah.The sacrificed animal is divided into three parts; for the needy, neighbours and the family. Ramatullah Miya, general secretary Muslim Association Nepal said that the great sacrifice of Prophet Mohammad marked the end of human sacrifice in the Muslim world. "It is a festival of fraternity, solidarity and brotherhood for Muslims," he said.

On the Occasion, President Dr Ram Baran Yadav, Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal and leaders of various political parties have extended greetings to the Nepali Muslims at home and abroad. The government has declared public holiday on Sunday to celebrate the festival. The Muslim population in Nepal is about 1.5 million.