Pakistan has officially confirmed the Muharram Start Date Pakistan after the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee concluded its moon sighting meeting on Monday. Officials did not sight the Muharram crescent, so Muharram 1448 AH will begin on Wednesday, June 17.
The committee met in Lahore while provincial and zonal moon sighting committees held parallel meetings across the country. After reviewing reports from different regions, committee members found no verified testimony confirming the sighting of the new moon.
Chairman Maulana Abdul Khabir Azad announced the decision following the meeting. As a result, the Islamic New Year will commence on June 17 across Pakistan.
The announcement aligns with earlier forecasts issued by the Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO). The space agency had predicted that moon visibility on June 15 would be highly unlikely due to the moon’s age and astronomical conditions.
According to SUPARCO, the new moon was born on the morning of June 15. However, its age at sunset remained too short for easy naked-eye observation. The agency also noted that the limited time between sunset and moonset further reduced the chances of visibility.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department had also indicated generally clear to partly cloudy weather conditions across most parts of the country. Despite favorable weather, no credible moon sighting reports emerged from any region.
Muharram begins on June 17, and Ashura, observed on the 10th day of Muharram, will fall on Friday, June 26. The day holds great religious significance for Muslims and is marked by processions, gatherings, and commemorative events across Pakistan.
Authorities will finalize security and administrative arrangements ahead of Muharram to ensure peaceful observances nationwide. Provincial governments, law enforcement agencies, and local administrations typically coordinate closely during the holy month.
The beginning of Muharram also marks the start of the Islamic calendar year 1448 AH. Muslims across Pakistan will observe the occasion with religious gatherings, prayers, and reflection as the new Islamic year begins.
