Karachi, Pakistan – In a significant move, the Sindh government has officially declared a public holiday on the occasion of the first day of Muharram, the Islamic New Year.
This decision comes as the Islamic calendar turns a new leaf, with Muslims around the world preparing to welcome the year 1446 AH.
Public Holidays Announcement for Sindh Province
The Sindh government has taken proactive steps to ensure that the observance of Ashura is carried out with due solemnity.
Two consecutive public holidays have been announced for Muharram 9 and 10. These dates are contingent upon the sighting of the Muharram moon, which will determine the exact timing of the Islamic New Year.
- If the moon is sighted on the evening of July 6, Muharram 1 will fall on July 7. Consequently, Ashura will be observed on July 15 and 16, corresponding to Monday and Tuesday. In this scenario, the public holidays will also be on July 15 and 16.
- Alternatively, if the new Islamic year commences on July 8, then Ashura will be marked on July 16 and 17. This would result in public holidays on July 16 and 17, which are Tuesday and Wednesday, respectively.
Public sector and private sector holiday notifications for Sindh
- Public Sector (Sindh, Pakistan):
- The Sindh government has officially declared a public holiday on July 7, 2024 (1st Muharram) to commemorate the Islamic New Year. This holiday applies to all government offices, institutions, and organizations in the province.
- Private Sector (Sindh, Pakistan):
- Similarly, private sector companies in Sindh will also observe a holiday on July 7, 2024 (1st Muharram) in alignment with the public sector. Employees working in private companies can enjoy this paid holiday to mark the beginning of the new Hijri year.
Observances Across Sindh
Cities and towns across Sindh will witness various observances during Muharram. From processions and majalis (gatherings) to recitations of elegies, the faithful will come together to honor Imam Hussain’s sacrifice. Notable places include:
- Karachi: The heart of Sindh, where large processions wind through the streets, accompanied by mourners beating their chests and reciting elegies.
- Hyderabad: Known for its historic Ashura processions, Hyderabad witnesses a sea of black-clad mourners paying homage to Imam Hussain.
- Sukkur: The city along the Indus River hosts majalis and gatherings where scholars discuss the lessons from Karbala.
- Larkana: Imam Bargahs (Shia community centers) in Larkana hold special programs to commemorate Ashura.
The Significance of Muharram
Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar, holds immense historical and spiritual importance.
It marks the beginning of the Islamic year and is a time for reflection, remembrance, and reverence. The month culminates in the observance of Ashura, which falls on the tenth day of Muharram.
Ashura: Commemorating Imam Hussain’s Sacrifice
Ashura commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (AS) and his companions at the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. Imam Hussain, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), stood against injustice and tyranny, sacrificing his life for principles of justice, truth, and compassion.
His legacy continues to inspire millions of Muslims worldwide.
Conclusion
As the moon sighting approaches, anticipation builds among the faithful. The Sindh government’s decision to declare public holidays reflects its commitment to honoring religious traditions and fostering unity among its citizens.
Let us remember Imam Hussain’s sacrifice and strive for justice and compassion in our lives.
FAQs
Muharram is the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar. It holds immense historical and spiritual importance. It marks the beginning of the Islamic year and culminates in the observance of Ashura, which commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (AS) at the Battle of Karbala.
Ashura, the tenth day of Muharram, is observed to honor Imam Hussain (AS), the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). He stood against injustice and tyranny, sacrificing his life for principles of justice, truth, and compassion.
Which cities in Sindh observe Muharram with processions and gatherings?
Notable cities in Sindh where Muharram is observed include:
Karachi: Large processions wind through the streets, accompanied by mourners reciting elegies.
Hyderabad: is known for historic Ashura processions.
Sukkur: hosts majalis (gatherings) where scholars discuss lessons from Karbala.
Larkana: Imam Bargahs hold special programs to commemorate Ashura.
Yes, the Sindh government has declared a public holiday on the first day of Muharram (July 7, 2024) for both public and private sectors in the province.