In accordance with the Islamic lunar calendar, the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee convened today in Karachi to ascertain the sighting of the Zil Hajj moon, marking the onset of the final month of the Islamic lunar year. Maulana Abdul Khabeer Azad, the chairman of the moon sighting body, presided over the meeting, while zonal committees simultaneously held gatherings in Islamabad, Lahore, and Peshawar to sight the Zil Hajj moon.
As per the announcement from the religious ministry spokesperson, the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee convenes on the 29th of each Islamic month to determine whether the crescent has been sighted or not. This decision carries significant importance for the Muslim faithful as it determines the commencement of various religious activities and celebrations.
Eidul Adha, popularly known as the Feast of Sacrifice, is one of the two Eid festivals celebrated by Muslims worldwide to commemorate the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to Allah Almighty. The festival is traditionally observed with the sacrificial slaughter of animals, with the meat being distributed among family members and the less fortunate.
Notably, the Zil Hajj moon has already been sighted in Saudi Arabia, setting the schedule for Hajj rituals to commence on June 27. The annual Hajj pilgrimage considered a pinnacle of spiritual devotion for Muslims, will begin on June 26 following the sighting of the crescent for the Islamic month of Zil Hajj. Eidul Azha, the culmination of the Hajj pilgrimage, will be celebrated on June 28 (10 Zil Hajj) in Saudi Arabia.
In the United Kingdom, Muslim believers will observe Eidul Azha on two different days. The Central London Mosque has declared June 28 as the day for celebrations, while Markazi Jamaat-e-Ahle Sunnat UK has announced Eidul Azha to be observed on June 29.
With the confirmation of the Zil Hajj moon sighting in Pakistan, preparations for Eidul Azha festivities will now commence, with Muslims eagerly awaiting the joyous occasion to express their gratitude and engage in acts of charity. The celebration of Eidul Azha holds immense religious and cultural significance, reinforcing the spirit of unity, sacrifice, and compassion within the Muslim community.