First Muharram to Fall on June 17
The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee has announced that the Muharram moon was not sighted anywhere in Pakistan on Monday.
As a result, the first day of Muharram 1448 AH will fall on Wednesday, June 17.
Accordingly, Ashura, the 10th day of Muharram, will be observed on Friday, June 26.
The announcement was made by Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee Chairman Maulana Syed Muhammad Abdul Khabir Azad after the moon-sighting meeting in Lahore.
The committee reviewed reports from different parts of the country before issuing the final decision.
No credible moon-sighting testimony was received from any region.
PMD Had Predicted Low Visibility Chances
The Pakistan Meteorological Department had already predicted that the crescent was unlikely to be visible on June 15.
According to the Met Office, the time between the birth of the moon and sunset was not enough for the crescent to be seen.
In an advisory issued on June 11, the PMD said weather conditions were expected to remain clear in several areas.
However, it stated that clear weather alone would not be enough for moon visibility because the crescent would be too young.
The final decision was still left to the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, which is responsible for official moon-sighting announcements in Pakistan.
Muharram Holds Deep Religious Importance
Muharram is the first month of the Islamic calendar.
It is also regarded as one of the four sacred months in Islam.
The month carries deep religious importance for Muslims across the world.
Ashura falls on the 10th day of Muharram. It is observed in memory of Imam Hussain, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, and his family members, who were martyred in the Battle of Karbala.
Across Pakistan, religious processions and gatherings are held during Muharram.
Scholars address large gatherings, while authorities make security and administrative arrangements in major cities.
The announcement of the Muharram moon also allows provincial governments, local administrations and security departments to finalise arrangements for religious events.
Citizens have been advised to follow official updates regarding traffic plans, security measures and public holiday announcements during Muharram.
