Integration of Scientific Observations
Maulana Azad has underscored the committee’s willingness to integrate scientific observations and forecasts into their moon-sighting methodology. This collaborative approach resonates with his prior engagements with former federal minister Fawad Chaudhry, where he affirmed the committee’s acknowledgment of scientific insights. Nonetheless, he clarified that the ultimate decision would remain grounded in Islamic principles and testimonies.
Ramadan Commencement and Duration
The sacred month of Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, commenced on March 12th, following the sighting of the Ramadan moon a day earlier. This year, Pakistani Muslims are poised to observe a 29-day Ramadan, culminating in the joyous celebration of Eidul Fitr on April 10th, provided the crescent moon is sighted on April 9th.
Global Observance
The onset of Ramadan was also observed on March 12th by numerous countries across the Middle East, Europe, and other regions worldwide, including Australia, Malaysia, Philippines, Brunei, and Oman.
Spiritual Practices during Ramadan-ul-Mubarak
Throughout Ramadan-ul-Mubarak, Muslims engage in fasting, abstaining from food, drink, idle talk, and negative behaviors. They are encouraged to focus on spiritual activities such as prayers, recitation of the Holy Quran, and acts of charity. In alignment with this spiritual ethos, the government has announced the Nisab-i-Zakat at Rs. 135,179 for Zakat Year 1444-45 A.H., signifying the minimum amount eligible for deduction from bank accounts on the eve of the first Ramadan.
As anticipation builds for the sighting of the Shawwal crescent moon, Muslims in Pakistan and around the world eagerly await the arrival of Eidul Fitr, a time of joy, gratitude, and communal celebration marking the culmination of a spiritually enriching month of Ramadan.
