As the final days of the sacred month of Ramadan approaches, the federal government of Pakistan has officially declared holidays to celebrate Eid ul Fitr, beginning from April 10th.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has sanctioned holidays from April 10th, which falls on a Wednesday, through to the 13th, a Saturday.
The announcement comes following predictions by the Met Office on Monday, indicating that Eid ul Fitr is expected to commence on April 10th, with the sighting of the Shawwal moon anticipated for April 9th.
According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), the crescent moon is expected to emerge on April 8th at 11:21 pm, with an estimated age of 19 to 20 hours by Maghrib prayer on the following day.
It's forecasted that the crescent will be visible for over 50 minutes around sunset, with clear skies expected over most parts of the country on April 9th, although some northern areas may experience cloud cover.
Having witnessed the crescent for Ramadan on March 11th, with the holy month commencing the subsequent day, Pakistanis will have observed 29 days of fasting if the PMD's predictions hold true.
Eid ul Fitr, celebrated by Muslims globally, marks the conclusion of Ramadan and the commencement of Shawwal. Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is a time for patience, self-control, charity, and communal welfare. Eid ul Fitr serves as a joyous and festive occasion immediately following this period of spiritual reflection.
In Islam, months are determined by the lunar calendar, with each month spanning either 29 or 30 days. Consequently, the start and end of Ramadan vary annually, depending on the sighting of the crescent moon.
Unlike the Gregorian calendar, which is based on solar cycles and comprises 12 months of fixed lengths, the Islamic calendar is approximately 10 days shorter due to its reliance on lunar orbits. As a result, Ramadan shifts its position relative to the Gregorian calendar each year.
The announcement of the Eid ul Fitr holidays offers an opportunity for Pakistanis to come together in celebration and reflection, embracing the spirit of unity and gratitude that characterizes this auspicious occasion.