Chairman of the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, Maulana Abdul Khabir Azad, has provided a celestial forecast for the sighting of the Shawwal crescent moon, marking the end of Ramadan and the beginning of Eidul Fitr. According to his predictions, the moon is expected to be visible on the 29th day of Ramadan, indicating that Eidul Fitr 2024 will likely be celebrated on Wednesday, April 10, in Pakistan.
Maulana Azad emphasized the committee’s openness to incorporating scientific observations and forecasts in their moon-sighting process. This approach aligns with his previous interactions with former federal minister Fawad Chaudhry, where he affirmed the committee’s recognition of scientific findings. However, he clarified that the final decision would still adhere to Islamic principles and testimonies.
The holy month of Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, began on March 12, following the sighting of the Ramadan moon a day earlier. This year, Pakistanis are expected to observe a 29-day Ramadan, culminating in the celebration of Eidul Fitr on April 10, provided the crescent moon is sighted on April 9.
The start of Ramadan was also observed on March 12 by several countries across the Middle East, Europe, and other parts of the world, including Australia, Malaysia, Philippines, Brunei, and Oman.
During Ramadan-ul-Mubarak, Muslims engage in fasting, abstaining from eating, drinking, gossiping, and cursing. They are encouraged to focus on meditative practices such as prayers, reading the Holy Quran, and giving charity. In line with this, the government has announced the Nisab-i-Zakat at Rs. 135,179 for Zakat Year 1444-45 A.H, which is the minimum amount to be deducted from bank accounts on the eve of the first Ramadan.
