Muharram moon not sighted, Ashura to fall on June 26

ISLAMABAD: The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee on Thursday announced that the Muharram moon was not sighted anywhere in Pakistan, meaning the new Islamic year will begin a day later than anticipated.

Following the committee’s decision, the first of Muharram 1448 AH will fall on June 17, while Ashura, observed on the 10th of Muharram, will be commemorated on June 26.

The announcement was made after the committee reviewed moon-sighting reports received from across the country during its meeting in Islamabad. Zonal and district Ruet-e-Hilal committees also convened in their respective regions to gather evidence regarding the crescent’s visibility.

Officials from the Pakistan Meteorological Department, SUPARCO and other relevant institutions provided technical and astronomical data to assist the committee in its deliberations.

With the moon not sighted, Zil Hajj will complete 30 days before the start of Muharram and the Islamic New Year.

Muharram is one of the four sacred months in Islam, while Ashura holds particular religious significance and is observed through processions, gatherings and commemorative events across the country.