Hazrat Ali Jayanti is the birth anniversary of Hazrat Ali, the cousin and son in law of Muhammad. Hazrat Ali is also said to have been the first male follower of Islam, aside from Muhammad himself. He was born in Mecca, at the Kaaba, the holiest site for Muslims. It is a public holiday in the state of Uttar Pradesh and a regional holiday in many parts of India. He was born to Abu Talib and Fatimah bint Asad. Ali was an early companion of Hazrat Muhammad and fought in the battles that formed the early Muslim community. Ali married Muhammads daughter Fatimah after moving to Medina.
Ali was appointed caliph after the assassination and death of Uthman ibn Affan. Ali was attacked and also assassinated while praying in the Great Mosque of Kufa. According to legend, he was struck in the head with a poisonous sword while he was saying offering his prayers.
Ali is known by various titles, given due to his personal qualities and events in his life. He is known as Al-Murtaza (The Chosen One), Amir al-Muminin (Commander of the Faithful Ones), Bab-e Madinatul-Ilm (Door of City of the Knowledge), Abu Turab (Father of the Soil"), Asad Allah (Lion of God), Haydar (Braveheart or Lion) and Walad al-Kabah (Son of the Kaaba).
Ali is important to both Shias and Sunnis, though his depiction sometimes varies in different faiths. He is respected as a scholar, pious Muslim, loyal to Muhammad and a just ruler. While he is considered the fourth Rashidun Caliph by Sunnis, the Shias regard him as the first Caliph and Imam after Muhammad. His birth anniversary is celebrated in mosques all over India. People offer special prayers, eat and offer their respects to Imam Hazrat Ali.