Muharram moon not sighted, Ashura to be observed on June 26

LAHORE: The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee on Monday announced that the Muharram moon was not sighted anywhere in Pakistan, meaning the first day of Muharram 1448 AH will fall on June 17 (Wednesday).

Accordingly, Ashura (10 Muharram) will be observed across the country on June 26 (Friday).

Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee Chairman Maulana Syed Muhammad Abdul Khabir Azad made the announcement after the committee’s meeting in Lahore, where moon sighting reports from across the country were reviewed.

Earlier, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) had forecast that there was little possibility of sighting the Muharram crescent on June 15, stating that the interval between the birth of the moon and sunset would be insufficient for visibility.

Read More: Opposition rejects federal budget, terms it burden on masses and economic failure

In an advisory issued on June 11, the Met Office had also said weather conditions were expected to remain clear in several parts of the country but would not favour crescent sighting.

Muharram is one of the four sacred months in Islam. Its 10th day, Ashura, commemorates the martyrdom of the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA), along with his family members and companions in the Battle of Karbala.

Throughout Muharram, faithful across Pakistan hold majalis and mourning processions, while religious scholars address gatherings highlighting the significance of the sacrifices made at Karbala.