Islamabad, April 9, 2024 – The much-anticipated sighting of the Shawwal moon has finally occurred, marking the end of Ramadan and heralding the joyous occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr in Pakistan.
Maulana Syed Muhammad Abdul Khabir Azad, Chairman of the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee Pakistan, made the announcement on Tuesday, confirming the sighting of the moon in various parts of the country.
In a press conference held in Islamabad, Maulana Azad, accompanied by his colleagues from both the Central and Zonal Ruet-e-Hilal Committees, declared that after careful consideration of testimonies from across Pakistan, it has been unanimously agreed that Eid-ul-Fitr would be celebrated on Wednesday, April 10, 2024. This marks the beginning of Shawwal-ul-Mukarram, 1445 AH in the Islamic calendar.
The sighting of the moon is a crucial event in the Islamic calendar, as it determines the start of Eid-ul-Fitr, a festival celebrated by Muslims worldwide with immense enthusiasm and joy. Families gather for prayers, exchange gifts, and share meals to commemorate the end of the holy month of Ramadan, a period of fasting, reflection, and spiritual growth.
The decision regarding the moon sighting was reached after meticulous evaluation of testimonies in accordance with Shariah parameters. Maulana Azad expressed gratitude for the unity and cooperation shown by all members of the committee in reaching this decision, emphasizing the importance of upholding Islamic traditions and practices.
During the press conference, Maulana Azad also offered prayers for the peace, progress, and prosperity of the nation. He extended his heartfelt prayers to the people of Palestine and the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir, acknowledging their enduring struggles and sacrifices in the pursuit of justice and freedom.
The process of moon sighting in Pakistan involves collaboration between various institutions and stakeholders. A pivotal meeting was held at the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, chaired by Maulana Azad and attended by esteemed members from the Ministry of Science and Technology, the Pakistan Meteorological Department, and the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO).
Prominent figures such as Allama Muhammad Dr. Hussain Akbar, Mufti Fazl Jamil Rizvi, and Maulana Muhammad Yasin Zafar were among the attendees, reflecting the diverse expertise and representation within the committee. Zonal members from key cities including Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi, Quetta, and Peshawar also contributed to the deliberations, ensuring comprehensive coverage and analysis of moon sighting testimonies.
As the nation prepares to celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr, streets come alive with vibrant decorations, markets bustle with shoppers purchasing new clothes and gifts, and homes resonate with the joyous sounds of festivities. Eid prayers will be offered in mosques and open spaces across the country, followed by gatherings with family and friends to share in the spirit of togetherness and gratitude.
Eid-ul-Fitr not only signifies the culmination of a month-long journey of spiritual devotion and self-discipline but also serves as a reminder of the importance of compassion, generosity, and solidarity within communities. As Pakistan embraces this auspicious occasion, it is a time for reflection, renewal, and celebration of the values that unite us as a nation.
