Every year on Bakra Eid or Bakrid, thousands of goats, sheeps and horned animals from various parts of Maharashtra and the country are brought for sale to Deonar slaughterhouse in Mumbai. This year, a goat worth whopping Rs 70 Lakh, is proving to be a major attraction at the abattoir. The reason behind the exorbitant pricing is due to the words ‘Allah’, ‘Mohammed’ and the number ‘786’ inscribed on its body, as reported by Asian Age. The goat belongs to Mohammad Ayaz Khan from Amethi. Bakra Eid 2018 in India: Eid-ul-Adha on August 22, Government Again Changes Holiday Date.

The goat is white with light and dark brown shades on its head, neck and backside. The owner claims that shades on the neck indicate the inscription of words ‘Allah’ and ‘Mohammad’ and number ‘786’ is also seen. “I have quoted a price Rs 70,70,786 for this goat, who is sacred as there are words of Allah and Mohammad on its body. The 786 number on its neck also makes it special. I hope that there are many people in Mumbai, who would like to buy it,” said Mr Khan. “Let the buyer first approach me, I will discuss the price with him,” he further added.

The number ‘786’ is of great significance for Muslims as it is believed to depict the total numerological value of the Quranic expression ‘Bismillah al-Rahman al-Rahim’. However, visitors and buyers are finding the price to be too expensive. “It’s true that the goat bears the words ‘Allah’ and ‘Mohammed’ and the number ‘786’. But Rs 70 Lakh is too costly,” said a visitor. According to experts, the astronomical rate quoted is a trick to attract buyers. Some rich people buy goats at a cost of a lakh or two. On Bakra Eid, goats are sacrificed and the Muslim community relishes lip-smacking mutton dishes to celebrate the occasion.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 21, 2018 11:05 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).