Muslims across the globe celebrate Prophet Muhammad’s birthday
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Muslims across the globe celebrate Prophet Muhammad’s birthday
On Thursday, Muslims worldwide marked Eid Mawlid al-Nabawi, the birthday of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, with special prayers, joyful community gatherings, parades and the distribution of traditional sweets. From Egypt and Türkiye to Indonesia and Pakistan, mosques were filled and streets came alive with poetry, songs and processions reflecting love for the Prophet. In most Muslim-majority countries, Mawlid al-Nabi is a public holiday, although observance varies and some Muslims refrain from celebrating, citing early Islamic precedent.
• Why it matters: The Mawlid unites the world’s two billion Muslims in reflection on the Prophet’s exemplary character and serves as an annual reminder of his teachings of compassion, mercy and justice—values that continue to guide and inspire Muslim communities around the world.
The Voice of Hind Rajab receives 23-minute standing ovation at the Venice Film Festival
The Voice of Hind Rajab, a docudrama portraying the true story of 6-year-old Palestinian Hind Rajab—killed with her family and ambulance workers in Gaza—brought the Venice Film Festival audience to tears and prompted a 23-minute standing ovation. Executive-produced by Hollywood figures including Joaquin Phoenix and Brad Pitt, the film aims to humanize Palestinian suffering and highlight the trauma of war. Director Kaouther Ben Hania emphasized the power of art in restoring dignity and bringing marginalized voices to the forefront.
• Why it matters: The film’s international acclaim spotlights Hind’s story as a symbol of Palestinian childhood under siege, challenging media dehumanization and urging viewers to reckon with the human cost of ongoing war in Gaza.