LAHORE: The Ministry of Religious Affairs on Monday announced that the Muharram 1448 AH moon was not sighted in the country. It confirmed that the first of Muharram will fall on Wednesday, June 17, while Ashura will be observed on June 26.
In an official notification, the ministry stated: “In pursuance of the decision of the Central Ruet-i-Hilal Committee in its meeting held today in Lahore, the federal government in the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, Islamabad, hereby announces that the moon of Muharram 1448 AH has not been sighted.”
It further added: “Therefore, the 1st Muharram 1448 AH shall commence from Wednesday, June 17, 2026.”
Earlier in the day, the state-run Associated Press of Pakistan (APP) reported that the Central Ruet-i-Hilal Committee was scheduled to meet at Iqbal Hall, Badshahi Mosque in Lahore to observe the Muharram crescent.
Muharram is considered a month of mourning, particularly observed by Shia Muslims around the world.
It marks the commemoration of the Battle of Karbala in 680 AD, during which the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him), Imam Husain (RA), along with his companions and family members, was martyred or subjected to severe suffering.
The Government of Pakistan has also announced two public holidays on the ninth and 10th of Muharram to observe Ashura. Religious processions are held across the country during this period.