LEICESTER – Hundreds of British Muslims paraded through Leicester streets to mark the birthday of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) on Sunday, December 11.

“As we take part in the procession, we chant ‘Allah is great’ and ‘Welcome to the world’ to celebrate the prophet’s birthday,” Mustafa Malick, spokesman of Leicester Islamic Center, told Leicester Mercury.

“It’s a joyous occasion and people celebrate it all over the world.

“It is organized by the Sunni Muslims but Shiite Muslims took part in Leicester as well.”

The Prophet’s birth falls on the 12th day of Rabi-ul-Awwal (the third month in the Islamic calendar).

Many Muslims see the Prophet’s birthday as an important time to learn about and reflect on the life of Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him.

Lectures and speeches are often recorded and published as podcasts.

Around the world, celebrations of the Prophet’s birthday include stalls selling Islamic books, leaflets, clothing, prayer mats and other materials.

The parade started from Leicester Islamic Centre in St Peter’s Road, through Highfields, to the Central Mosque in Conduit Street.

The procession began at about 1pm on Sunday and when the men and boys taking part reached the Central Mosque they were joined by the women and girls to celebrate together.