Bakra Eid 2022: What to Expect at Lahore's Bakra Mandi

My brother, you’re looking at the answer to your prayers! If you’ve ever been to Lahore and are wondering what bakra mandi in Lahore is like, then you’ve come to the right place. We’re here to tell you all about Bakra Eid 2022 in Lahore and what it has in store for you so you can get the best out of your visit.

A brief history of the festival

The dates of Bakra-Eid have been fixed as Sept. 13 and 14 by a convention of Kazi (clergy) and prominent persons in 1919, under British rule. The convention was held under Qazi Haji Ahmad Shafi, who was then heading al Madina al Munawwara-tul-Jadidah, Lahore’s biggest mosque. It is unclear how long before 1919 Muslims celebrated Bakra-Eid on these two days. Some say that Muslims had started celebrating it on these days after Hijrat (emigration) from Makkah to Madina but no one knows for sure how long before 1919 Muslim communities were celebrating it on these two days or why they were doing so.

What do I need to know before going?

There’s not much chance of getting a good deal, so don’t arrive too early. It can get very busy and chaotic, with people pushing and shoving; keep hold of your wallet and bags at all times. Be aware that many people will be carrying sharp blades, which is why it’s illegal for anyone under 16 to carry a knife in public. While there are police on hand, they may not always be able to intervene quickly enough if you find yourself caught up in an altercation. Also beware of pickpockets, who are more active than usual during bakra mandi because they know people are distracted by buying meat and often have their wallets out while they do so. Keep your valuables safely tucked away or hidden under clothing if possible. If you need to use a credit card or cash machine, try to find one inside a bank or other secure building rather than using one outside on the street where there may be an increased risk of being targeted by thieves.

When should I arrive?

The best time to arrive is in mid-morning, as early as 6 am. This will give you plenty of time to find a parking spot, head inside, and negotiate with butchers before things get crowded. If you can't make it until later in the day (say, 9 or 10 am), that's still better than going during dinner or even earlier, which will only guarantee trouble finding a place to park and causing a big crowd inside. Even if it means waking up extra early on Eid morning (and sacrificing sleep for an entire year after), do not show up for bakra in anything less than ideal conditions. It’s worth it.

Where will everything be happening?

Originally, my gut told me that I should focus my attention on two of Lahore’s biggest bazaars, but there is always a chance that crowds will gather at other places in response to police barricades. This year, like many before it, Pakistan’s security forces have created checkpoints and established red zones (parts of town where gatherings are forbidden) as a part of their strategy for maintaining order. If security officials decide to focus on these areas instead of public markets or slaughterhouses, there could be even bigger traffic jams than usual. To avoid being stuck behind roadblocks and spending hours getting around them in gridlock traffic try focusing your efforts on areas with high foot traffic. The fewer people you need to get through, the better. In addition to keeping an eye out for potential police blockades, you should also consider how long it might take you to get from point A to point B—especially if you want to spend time hanging out at any of your destinations. For example, if you plan on visiting multiple bazaars or shops during your trip home from work today, make sure that they aren’t all located in different parts of town. Once again, think about what time you want to arrive home and map out a route accordingly!

How much does it cost?

The cost of participating in Pakistan’s biggest cattle market, where animals are sold, traded, and slaughtered, depends on which animal you want to buy. For example, a calf can be bought for as little as Rs3,000-Rs4,000. An adult cow can be purchased for around Rs20,000-Rs25,000. A buffalo costs about Rs50,000-Rs60,000. The average price of a camel is about Rs150,000-Rs200,000. Goats usually sell for between Rs2,500 and Rs5,000 each. Sheep sell for between Rs1,500 and Rs2,500 each. The most expensive livestock is horses – they cost between Rs80,000 to more than two million rupees each!

Security tips you should know about before going out

In recent years, we’ve seen a spate of terror attacks in Pakistan. At times like these, people are understandably worried about their safety and many want to stay home—which is understandable. So everyone in Pakistan (and everywhere else where terrorist attacks have taken place) needs to go out and live life as normal as possible. Here are a few tips from locals who know what they're talking about when it comes to keeping yourself safe during a terrorist attack and preventing fear from having too much influence over your decisions.

Are there any rituals I should follow?

Although no specific rituals are followed by all of Pakistan, it is common for bakras (the sacrificed animals) to be sold on eid mornings. Traditionally, bakers were slaughtered either in front of a mosque or near a flowing body of water; nowadays they are usually kept nearby. The best place to find an affordable and delicious bakra is at Lahore’s mandi, which opens at 7 am every eid morning. Make sure you get there early and bring cash! You won’t be able to use your debit or credit card—and if you wait too long then you might miss out entirely.