Milad goes digital in capital

As the blessed month of Rabiul Awwal begins, commemorating the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), an increasing number of residents in the capital have turned to digital platforms to mark the occasion.

What was once observed mainly through physical gatherings is now finding expression in virtual spaces - giving rise to the trend of the "Digital Milad."

Across Islamabad, from well-to-do neighbourhoods to suburban communities, residents are hosting online Mahafil-e-Milad, streaming live naat sessions, and joining digital Seerat conferences. Platforms such as Zoom, Facebook Live, YouTube, and WhatsApp have become central to organising and participating in these spiritual activities.

University students are also playing a proactive role, arranging online naat competitions, Seerat quizzes, and live Q&A sessions with scholars, blending religious devotion with modern technology.

Anam, a media student at the International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI), said that social media allows religious content to reach wider audiences, particularly the youth. "We're using platforms like Instagram and TikTok to share short videos on the life of the Prophet (PBUH) and promote values of peace and compassion," she explained.

Many mosques in Islamabad are also embracing the shift. Some have launched daily live sessions on Seeratun Nabi (pbuh), while others have opened online donation channels to support charitable causes during Rabiul Awwal. Renowned Islamic scholars are delivering special lectures via YouTube and Facebook, reaching thousands in real time.

Sadaf Sajid, a Qaria from Sector G-10, remarked that Digital Milad is not a replacement but rather an extension of devotion. "It allows people from different cities, even countries, to come together and celebrate the blessed month," she said.

Similarly, Ayesha, a Qaria from Chak Shehzad who conducts online Seerat classes, described technology as a blessing when used to spread the Prophet's (PBUH) message. "The aim is to educate and unite the Ummah, and digital platforms are proving to be powerful tools in this mission," she observed.

For many families in Islamabad, particularly those with loved ones abroad, Digital Milad has become a way to maintain spiritual connection. Joint online gatherings, where relatives from different cities and countries participate in collective recitations and prayers, are increasingly popular.

Shireen, a resident of F-8, shared that her son is studying in the UK, and for the second consecutive year, he has joined their family Milad via video call. "It brings us closer, even when we're miles apart," she said.

While traditional celebrations - such as illuminating homes, distributing sweets, and attending mosque events - remain integral, the rise of Digital Milad signals a new pattern of religious observance in Pakistan's urban centres.