Pakistan Confirms Shawwal Crescent Moon Sighting for Eid 2025

Pakistan has confirmed the sighting of the Shawwal crescent moon, signifying Eid-ul-Fitr will be celebrated on March 31, 2025. The announcement was made by Maulana Abdul Khabir Azad, Chairman of the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee. Favorable weather conditions aided visibility, and festivities are expected to include prayers and family reunions, supported by governmental holidays.

The crescent moon marking the beginning of Shawwal, ushering in Eid-ul-Fitr, has been officially sighted in several Pakistani cities, including Lahore, Islamabad, and Faisalabad. Consequently, the festive day is set to be celebrated on Monday, March 31, 2025. This moment marks the commencement of joyous celebrations across the nation.

The announcement was made by Maulana Abdul Khabir Azad, Chairman of the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, who conveyed the news during a press conference held in Islamabad. He stated that credible reports of moon sightings had been received from various parts of the country, ensuring the legitimacy of the celestial observation.

An official moon sighting meeting was convened in Islamabad, featuring representatives from the Ministry of Religious Affairs, the Meteorological Department, the Ministry of Science and Technology, and the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO). Their collective efforts ensured the accuracy of the moon sighting confirmation.

Favorable weather conditions across key cities, including Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad, greatly aided in the visibility of the crescent moon. According to SUPARCO, the Shawwal new moon was formed on March 29 at 3:58 PM (Pakistan time) and was visibly clear due to its age of approximately 27 hours by sunset on March 30. The first sighting was reported shortly after the Maghrib azaan in Lahore.

In light of the confirmed moon sighting, families throughout Pakistan are preparing to engage in a day filled with prayers, festivities, and family reunions. Markets are bustling with last-minute shoppers acquiring festive clothing, gifts, and traditional sweets such as sheer khurma and seviyan.

To facilitate the celebrations, the government has declared a nationwide public holiday. Employees observing a five-day workweek will receive three days off, while those on a six-day schedule will have four days off. As the country eagerly anticipates Eid-ul-Fitr, the festival embodies a spirit of faith, gratitude, and communal harmony.

From morning prayers at mosques to elaborate family meals and acts of charity, the celebratory practices of Eid-ul-Fitr strengthen community bonds. The atmosphere across Pakistan is charged with excitement as the festive hour draws near, heralding the greeting, Eid Mubarak!

The sighting of the Shawwal crescent moon has officially confirmed Eid-ul-Fitr on March 31, 2025, bringing joy across Pakistan. The announcement was made following verifications by notable governmental representatives. Celebrations are set to include prayers, family gatherings, and traditional meals, supported by a nationwide public holiday. The overall excitement reflects the cultural and spiritual significance of this joyous occasion.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com