In an eagerly awaited tradition, the sighting of the Shawwal crescent in Saudi Arabia didn’t occur on Monday, setting the stage for a festive Eidul-Fitr celebration slated for Wednesday, April 10.
Eidul-Fitr marks the joyful culmination of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. As the faithful eagerly await this occasion, the Saudi Supreme Court had encouraged the public to report any sightings of the moon, facilitating the nation’s preparations for the festivities.
Scheduled on the first day of Shawwal, Eidul-Fitr is a time of jubilation, marked by prayers, feasting, and the exchange of gifts. Lasting for three days, it holds profound significance in the Islamic calendar, symbolizing spiritual renewal and communal solidarity.
In neighboring Pakistan, anticipation is high as well, with the Meteorological Office forecasting the sighting of the Shawwal moon on April 9, heralding the beginning of Eidul-Fitr celebrations on April 10. According to their projections, the crescent would emerge on April 8 at 11:21 PM, reaching an age of 19 to 20 hours by the following evening’s Maghrib prayer. With optimal visibility for over 50 minutes around sunset, the occasion promises to be a time of joy and togetherness for Muslims across the region.
