26/02/2026
Eid Congregation at the University of Peshawar'
A Memorable Tradition and Its Background.!!!
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In the mid-1990s, when I had the honor of serving as Director Administration at University of Peshawar, a blessed and memorable tradition was established on the campus. It was the regular arrangement of the Eid congregation within the university’s vast and green surroundings—an event that not only strengthened the academic environment but also connected the surrounding communities with the university in a spirit of unity.
This noble initiative was undertaken at the wish and patronage of the then Dean of the Faculty of Islamic Studies, Mrs. Jamila Saddal. Her vision and religious commitment inspired the idea that Eid prayer should be held in a dignified and organized manner within such a great center of learning, so that students, teachers, employees, and people from nearby villages could stand together in a single row and participate in this collective act of worship.
Planning and Administrative Arrangements;
To achieve this objective,a comprehensive plan was devised.A formal committee was constituted under my convenorship,with representatives from various departments of the university.
The committee worked diligently on several key aspects:
Selection of a spacious and suitable venue for Eid prayer
Arrangement of prayer rows, carpets, and orderly alignment
Provision of sound system, sermon arrangements, and appointment of the Imam
Traffic management and parking discipline
Cleanliness,water supply, and essential security arrangements۔
After careful consideration, it was decided that the Eid congregation would be held in the large open ground in front of Hostel No. 2—an ideal location due to its openness, greenery, and capacity to accommodate a large gathering.
A Grand and Inspiring Gathering;
When the first Eid congregation was held, its scale and beauty exceeded all expectations.The then Principal of Islamia College'Prof.DrRashid Farooqi led the prayer as Imam.
A large number of university faculty, students, administrative staff, and their families participated. People from surrounding villages also joined in great numbers.
It was a remarkable scene where:
scholars and teachers,
students—the architects of the future,
hardworking employees, and
simple villagers
all stood shoulder to shoulder in a single line—without distinction or difference, united only by the spirit of devotion to Almighty Allah.
This gathering went beyond the performance of prayer; it fostered social harmony, brotherhood, and a deep sense of unity between the university and the local community.
Continuity of the Tradition;
This was not a one-time event.The Eid congregation continued for several years, growing each year in size, organization,& enthusiasm. It became a cherished tradition of the university—one eagerly awaited and considered a great blessing to attend.
Changing Circumstances and Security Concerns;
However, over time, the regional situation began to change. The presence of militant elements from Afghanistan—commonly referred to as the Taliban—created increasing security concerns across the region.
Large public gatherings were no longer free from risk. In an open and sensitive environment like the university,ensuring the safety of thousands of participants became a serious challenge. The administration, acting with responsibility and foresight, decided to first limit and eventually suspend the congregation in order to safeguard human lives from any potential threat.
Concluding Reflection;
Although circumstances brought this beautiful tradition to a halt,its memories remain alive in our hearts.The Eid congregation at the University of Peshawar demonstrated that educational institutions are not merely centers of learning—they are also strong pillars of spirituality, brotherhood, and social cohesion.
It stands as a shining chapter in the history of the university and a reminder that when intentions are pure and leadership is sincere, even institutions of learning can serve as places that unite hearts just like houses of worship.
