Islamic New Year
The new Islamic year, 1447 Hijri, is anticipated to commence on Friday, June 27, according to recent astronomical forecasts, which suggest that the Muharram moon is unlikely to be sighted on Tuesday, June 25. This projection is based on the calculated time of the moon’s birth, which is expected to occur on June 25 at approximately 3:31 PM Pakistan Standard Time.
Astronomers and moon-sighting experts explain that the moon will be too young and too close to the sun on the evening of June 25, making it nearly impossible to observe with the naked eye in most parts of the world, especially in South Asia and the Middle East.
They indicate that while some parts of the United States may be able to detect the new crescent using high-powered telescopes on the evening of June 25, general visibility is not expected until the following evening.
Global visibility conditions improve significantly on Wednesday, June 26, when most countries are likely to witness the Muharram crescent moon with the unaided eye.
This would result in the Islamic month of Muharram, which marks the beginning of the Hijri calendar, starting on Friday, June 27. Based on this timeline, the 10th day of Muharram, known as Youm-e-Ashura, will fall on Sunday, July 6.
In Pakistan, the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee will hold its official meeting on the evening of June 26 to confirm the moon sighting. This meeting will include reports from zonal committees across the country and input from meteorological and astronomical departments. If the moon is indeed sighted on that date, the committee will officially declare the beginning of Muharram and mark the start of the Islamic year 1447 AH.
Youm-e-Ashura, observed on the 10th day of Muharram, holds profound religious significance for Muslims around the world, particularly for commemorating the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (RA) at the Battle of Karbala.
In Pakistan, it is marked with religious processions, majalis (gatherings), and other solemn observances. Enhanced security measures and public holidays are typically announced to facilitate these events and ensure public safety during this sacred period.
As always, the final announcement will be based on actual moon sighting reports, although scientific predictions offer a strong indication of the expected dates.
