Saniya Anjum/Bengaluru

Imagine standing before a life-sized model of Makkah as it stood in Prophet Ibrahim’s time, the Kaaba’s ancient stones glowing under LED lights, with desert winds recreated through ambient soundscapes.

This is what you experience at the ongoing International Seerah Exhibition—a vibrant, tech-driven celebration of the life of Prophet Muhammad at the BDA Playground near Eidgah Akbari.

The ground has been transformed into a portal to the past, hosting the International Seerah Exhibition—a vibrant, tech-driven celebration of the life of Prophet Muhammad.

From October 24 to 27, this free-entry spectacle invites all to step into the sands of 7th-century Arabia, blending history, faith, and cutting-edge technology.

The exhibition in Neelasandra is an electrifying experience that kindles a profound spiritual and emotional bond for Muslims, pulling them irresistibly closer to the radiant life of Prophet Muhammad. This captivating event enthrals families, youth, and curious minds, blending timeless wisdom with cutting-edge innovation to illuminate the Prophet’s legacy with vibrant faith, passion, and unwavering devotion.

The exhibition was inaugurated by Karnataka Ministers BZ Zameer Ahmed Khan and Rahim Khan in the presence of MLA Haris and the Chief Minister’s Political Secretary Naseer Ahmed.

The exhibition

Organised by the Akbari Masjid Committee, the exhibition promises to “connect hearts to the Prophet’s legacy,” and it’s delivering.

Social media is abuzz with glimpses of smiling families and awestruck kids, some capturing a young boy reciting Sunnah with infectious zeal—a moment that’s gone viral on Instagram.

The venue, a sprawling open ground, is meticulously prepared—inspected days ago by MLA Haris and local police to ensure seamless crowd flow, ample lighting, and safety. Whether you’re a history buff, a tech enthusiast, or simply seeking spiritual upliftment, this event is crafted to captivate.

 The exhibition unfolds like a living museum, guiding visitors through the Prophet’s life in a 2-3 3-hour journey. From his birth in a softly lit cradle scene to the dramatic escape in Cave Thawr, each moment is brought to life with 3D models, virtual reality tours, and narrated Hadiths.

A VR “walk” through young Muhammad’s Mecca is where you can almost feel the bustle of its markets.

The Medina era steals the show, with multi-period replicas of Masjid al-Nabawi—its humble mud-brick origins evolving into later expansions. Touchscreens detail pivotal moments like the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah, while non-graphic audio reenacts the Battle of Badr, making history accessible yet profound. For the younger crowd, “Sunnah Stations” teach habits like smiling or sharing food, inspired by the Prophet’s example. A reflection zone projects his final sermon’s words on walls, urging visitors to pause and ponder his message of mercy.

What sets this exhibition apart is its bold embrace of technology. Picture this: a 360° VR view of the Mecca Royal Clock Tower, visible from 25 km away, or sound effects that transport you to the adhan’s echo in ancient Medina. Interactive quizzes engage teens with questions like, “How would the Prophet navigate today’s social media?”

These modern touches make the Seerah relatable, especially for a generation glued to screens. As one attendee posted on X, “It’s like stepping into a time machine, but with Wi-Fi!”

Karnataka Ministers BZ Zameer Ahmed Khan inaugurating the exhibition

Free entry has opened the doors wide, drawing diverse crowds—families with kids, students snapping selfies, and elders reminiscing. Women’s sections ensure inclusivity, and the open-ground setup, bathed in Bengaluru’s pleasant 24-28°C weather, feels welcoming. Prayer facilities align with salah and daily speeches by local scholars unpack themes like the Prophet’s leadership and compassion. Quizzes, held 2-3 times daily, offer prizes, turning learning into a game for kids and adults alike.

This event is part of a global wave of Seerah exhibitions, from Rabat’s tech-heavy museum (nearing 5 million visitors) to Dakar’s interactive displays. Earlier in 2025, Nagpur’s Seerah Expo 2.0 and Mumbra’s Rabi’ul Awwal exhibit wowed crowds with similar blends of faith and innovation.

The Bengaluru edition stands out for its scale and local flavour, with organisers urging attendees to “relive the glory of the Prophet’s era.” Social media hashtags like #Seerah2025 and #BangaloreEvents are lighting up with photos of glowing models and heartfelt testimonials.

With two days left, now’s the time to dive in. Arrive by 2 PM to dodge the evening rush, and bring water for the outdoor setup. The BDA Playground is a short auto ride from central Bengaluru, near familiar landmarks like Eidgah Akbari. Whether you’re seeking spiritual renewal, a history lesson, or a family outing, this exhibition delivers. As one visitor put it, “It’s not just history—it’s a connection to something bigger.”

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As Day 2 unfolds, the International Seerah Exhibition is more than an event—it’s a bridge between past and present, faith and future. With its closing ceremonies set for October 27, don’t miss this chance to walk in the Prophet’s footsteps. Check Instagram (@arman_shaik) or X (@mlanaharis) for live updates, and head to Neelasandra for a journey that’s as enlightening as it is unforgettable.