Eid al-Adha in Munich: 2000 revelers united in Luitpoldpark!

Eid al-Adha in Munich: 2000 revelers united in Luitpoldpark!

There is a festive atmosphere in Luitpoldpark in Munich today as around 2,000 people celebrate the important festival of Eid al-Adha together. Particularly committed is 24-year-old Mirjeta Krasniqi, who traditionally celebrates with her friends. For many, this day, also known as Burban Bayrami, represents a deep-rooted cultural connection to their faith.

The festival commemorates Abraham's remarkable willingness to sacrifice his son and is therefore a sign of sacrificial faith and gratitude. The Munich Muslim Council launched the event and thus creates a space for intercultural exchange and joint celebration. Among those present are Mayor Verena Dietl (SPD), who praised the diversity in Munich in her welcoming speech, as well as several representatives of other religions who are committed to peaceful coexistence.

A celebration of diversity

While families feast on delicious falafel burgers, fries and kofta and children play happily, prayers in Arabic are heard from a small stage over loudspeakers. Information stands from various organizations invite you to find out more about Munich's diverse cultural landscape. The liberal Jewish community Beth Shalom is particularly highlighted: Gabriela Schneider talks about the coincidence of various festivals and emphasizes the importance of interreligious dialogue, which has become more important since the Second World War, as a source from Berlin makes clear.

Interreligious dialogue is not only a necessity in the face of political and social conflicts, but also an opportunity for everyone who is interested in respectful cooperation. Marian Offman, Commissioner for Interreligious Dialogue, expressed good wishes and pointed out the importance of promoting understanding and acceptance between different faith communities.

Criticism and headwind

But not everything on the sidelines of the festival is untroubled. The specialist information center for right-wing extremism in Munich (Firm) expresses concerns and sees connections to Islamism in the Muslim Council. These allegations were vehemently denied by Sokol Lamaj, chairman of the Muslim Council. He demands legal evidence for the allegations and makes it clear that the Muslim Council is actively committed to peaceful coexistence.

In his remarks, CSU city councilor Delija Balidemaj brings up the need for constructive dialogue between the different religious communities. In a city like Munich, which is characterized by its religious and cultural diversity, it is crucial to break down prejudices and overcome barriers. This is done, among other things, through projects such as “ZiM”, which is dedicated to the participation of disadvantaged religious communities and promotes exchange between the city administration, city politics and the various communities, as the city also presents on its website.

Overall, it shows that Eid al-Adha is not just a festival for Muslims, but also offers a unique opportunity to celebrate the coexistence of different cultures and religions in Munich and to make new connections. Today, more than ever, peaceful dialogue is essential to promote interreligious peace and preserve the values ​​of an open society.