January 14, Homeland Defenders’ Day (Men’s Day)

Date changes, Eid al-Adha (Kurban Hayit)

Eid al-Adha (Kurban Hayit) is one of the most important holidays of the Islamic world, for it marks the end of the pilgrimage to Mecca, known as Hajj. It is celebrated 70 days after the end of Eid al-Fitr. Since 1991, Kurban Hayit has been considered an important Uzbekistan holiday.

As with Ramadan Hayit, preparations begin on the eve of the holiday, known as Arafah, as special baked goods are prepared in every Uzbek household. In the evening, a pre-holiday pilaf is cooked and exchanged with others: The rice dish is piled into a large ceramic bowl, topped with baked treats and delivered to friends and neighbors.

As in other countries, Eid al-Adha in Uzbekistan begins with a special morning prayer known as Hayit Namaz, followed by a customary visit to the graves of loved ones. During the three days of Kurban Hayit, many families make a sacrifice, which in Uzbekistan has traditionally been a sheep. The meat is then divided into three parts, which are distributed equally between relatives, the needy and guests who have been specially invited for the occasion. Read more...