The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee of Pakistan is scheduled to meet today to observe the crescent moon for Muharram 1448 AH. The announcement has drawn attention across the country as Muslims await confirmation of the Islamic New Year and the beginning of the sacred month of Muharram.
According to the Ministry of Religious Affairs, the meeting will take place at Lahore’s historic Badshahi Mosque. The session will be chaired by Ruet-e-Hilal Committee Chairman Maulana Abdul Khabir Azad, who will review moon sighting reports received from different regions of Pakistan.
Regional and zonal committees are also expected to hold parallel meetings in various cities. Their observations and testimonies will be shared with the central committee before a final announcement regarding the start of Muharram 1448 AH.
Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia is also expected to conduct moon sighting activities this evening. Religious authorities and astronomical observers across the Kingdom will monitor the horizon to determine the beginning of the new Islamic year.
The first day of Muharram holds special significance in Saudi Arabia because the Kiswah, the black cloth covering the Holy Kaaba, is traditionally replaced on 1 Muharram. The ceremony is watched closely by Muslims around the world and symbolizes respect for Islam’s holiest site.
In previous years, the Kiswah replacement process was commonly carried out during the month of Dhul Hijjah. However, authorities later adjusted the schedule, and the annual change now takes place on the first day of Muharram.
