site.btaGERB Leader Borissov: Coexistence between Christians and Muslims in Bulgaria Has Always Served as Example for Other Countries

Greeting Muslims on the start of Kurban Bayram, GERB leader Boyko Borissov wrote on Facebook: "The coexistence between Christians and Muslims in Bulgaria has always been an example for other countries. I believe that it will continue to be so."

"Happy Kurban Bayram to our Muslim friends! May you be healthy and happy," Borissov wished. 

Kurban Bayram (Eid al-Adha, or Feast of the Sacrifice) is celebrated for four days, during which families meet and take forgiveness. The day heralding the coming of Bayram is called Arafat Day. Then women knead mekitsa, home-made cakes, prepare halva and distribute the food to their neighbours, relatives and friends for the souls of the deceased. On the first day of the holiday, a traditional prayer called Bayram Namaz is said in which only men participate. It is preceded by the customary morning prayer, Sabah Namaz, and the time between the two is filled with the reading of sermons specially prepared for the occasion. A major tradition of the festival is the sacrifice of animals for health, success, and prosperity. Tradition dictates that the wealthy give a portion of the sacrificed animal to relatives and poor families.