Actor Farman Haider, who plays the lead role of Shivay in Zee TV and Rahul Tewary Productions’ show Jagadhatri, opened up about the significance of Milad-un-Nabi, sharing how the occasion reminds him of the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and the importance of compassion, kindness and humility. While he will be away from his family in Mumbai due to work commitments this year, Farman says the distance cannot come in the way of prayers and blessings.
“Milad-un-Nabi is a very meaningful and peaceful occasion for me. It reminds me of the life and teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), especially the importance of compassion, kindness and humility. I usually mark the day by offering prayers, spending time with family and reflecting on the values we should carry into our everyday lives. I’m in Mumbai for work while my family is back in my hometown, so unfortunately I won’t be able to celebrate with them this year. But distance doesn’t really matter when it comes to prayers. We will keep each other in our prayers and celebrate the occasion in our own way, with the same love and blessings,” he says.
Recalling his childhood memories of the occasion, Farman says the celebrations were always marked by a strong sense of community and togetherness. “My fondest memories are of celebrating Milad-un-Nabi with my family and the entire community. The atmosphere used to be very warm and positive, with prayers, gatherings and everyone coming together. As a child, I especially loved the happiness and sense of togetherness that surrounded the day. Since childhood, we have also always enjoyed Suji Halwa and Kaju Katli on Eid Milad-un-Nabi, so those flavours are a beautiful part of my memories,” he shares.
For Farman, beginning the day with prayers and spending time with loved ones remains particularly special. “The simplicity of coming together, remembering the Prophet’s teachings and sharing positivity is what makes the occasion special for me. Spending time with family and beginning the day with prayers is something that remains very close to my heart,” he says.
The actor believes the biggest lesson of Milad-un-Nabi lies in how people treat one another. “For me, the biggest lesson is that true goodness lies in how we treat other people. It reminds us to be compassionate, forgiving and humble, and to help others whenever we can. These are values that are relevant every single day, not just on a special occasion.”
When asked which values he personally tries to carry forward, Farman highlights kindness and humility. “I would say kindness and humility. No matter how successful you become, you should always remain grounded and treat everyone with respect. You never really know what someone else is going through, so being kind can make a much bigger difference than we realise.”
Farman also feels that it is important for the younger generation to understand the deeper meaning behind the occasion. “Festivals are beautiful because they bring people together, but their real significance lies in the values they teach us. The younger generation should understand the message behind Milad-un-Nabi, which is peace, compassion, respect and humanity, so that these values become part of their everyday lives.”
He admits that his understanding of the occasion has evolved with age. “As a child, I mostly looked at it as a special occasion filled with celebrations, family and happiness. As I’ve grown older, I’ve understood the deeper meaning behind it. Today, I see it more as a reminder to look within, become a better human being and follow the values that the Prophet (PBUH) taught through his life.”
One teaching, in particular, continues to stay with him. “The importance of treating others with kindness, dignity and compassion has stayed with me. The emphasis on forgiveness, patience and helping others is something I try to remember in my personal and professional life. For me, being a good human being will always be more important than anything else.”
