As the Islamic calendar turns a new leaf, Muslims around the world are set to welcome the Islamic New Year, which is expected to commence on July 7, 2024.
The first day of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar, is anticipated to be observed on Sunday, contingent upon the moon sighting.
With the advent of Muharram, the Muslim community will prepare to observe Ashura, a significant day of remembrance that takes place on the tenth of the month.
Ashura holds profound historical and spiritual importance, commemorating the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (AS) and his companions at the Battle of Karbala.
Ashura holidays in Pakistan
In Pakistan, the government has already announced two consecutive public holidays to mark the occasion of Ashura. These holidays are slated for Muharram 9 and 10, ensuring that the observances are carried out with due solemnity and reverence.
The exact dates of these holidays, however, hinge on the decision of the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee regarding the sighting of the Muharram moon. If the moon is sighted on the evening of July 6, then Muharram 1 will fall on July 7. Consequently, Ashura will be observed on July 15 and 16, corresponding to Monday and Tuesday. In this scenario, the public holidays will also be on July 15 and 16.
Alternatively, if the new Islamic year commences on July 8, then Ashura will be marked on July 16 and 17. This would result in public holidays on July 16 and 17, which are Tuesday and Wednesday respectively.
