Muslims in Kerala will celebrate Bakrid, also known as Eid al-Adha, on May 28, 2026 [1].
The confirmation of the date allows the community to prepare for one of the most significant religious observances in the Islamic calendar. Because the date of the festival depends on lunar sightings, official declarations are essential for coordinating public holidays and community events across the state.
Religious authorities said that the month of Dhul-Hijjah began on May 19, 2026 [2]. This decision followed the failure to sight the crescent moon, which is the traditional requirement for marking the start of the lunar month [2].
Bakrid is observed on the 10th day of Dhul-Hijjah [3]. Based on the start date of the month, the festivities are set for May 28 [1], [2].
While several sources, including The Hindu and Mathrubhumi, confirm the May 28 date [1], [2], some reporting has varied. The Indian Express reported an alternative date of May 27, 2026, for the celebration in India [4]. However, the prevailing consensus among Kerala authorities remains May 28 [1], [2].
The festival involves the tradition of sacrifice and is a time of prayer and gathering for families. The timing of the event is strictly tied to the lunar calendar, meaning that slight variations in moon sightings can lead to different dates across different regions or interpretations.
“Kerala to celebrate Bakrid on May 28”
The discrepancy between the May 27 and May 28 dates highlights the inherent variability of the lunar calendar. Because different religious bodies and regions may rely on different sighting methods or astronomical calculations, it is common for the start of Islamic holidays to vary by 24 hours across different jurisdictions.
