LAHORE (MNN); The Ministry of Religious Affairs announced on Monday that the moon of Muharram 1448 AH was not sighted anywhere in Pakistan, meaning the new Islamic year will begin on Wednesday, June 17.
According to an official notification issued following a meeting of the Central Ruet-i-Hilal Committee in Lahore, the committee concluded that no verified reports of moon sighting were received from across the country.
“As a result, 1st Muharram 1448 AH will commence on Wednesday, June 17, 2026,” the ministry stated.
The moon-sighting meeting was held at Iqbal Hall, Badshahi Mosque, Lahore, under the supervision of the Central Ruet-i-Hilal Committee.
Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar, holds special significance for Muslims, particularly the Shia community, as it commemorates the sacrifices made during the Battle of Karbala in 680 AD.
The battle saw the martyrdom of Imam Husain (RA), the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him), along with his companions and family members, making Muharram a period of mourning, reflection and remembrance.
With the beginning of Muharram on June 17, Ashura — observed on the 10th of Muharram — will fall on June 26. The government traditionally announces public holidays on the 9th and 10th of Muharram, during which religious gatherings and processions are held across the country to mark the occasion.
