Rajab Moon Sighted, Shab-e-Mehraj on Jan 16

Srinagar: Ruet-e-Hilal Committee of neighboring country Pakistan, on Sunday announced that the moon of Rajab has been sighted, marking the beginning of the sacred month across the sub continent.

The announcement came after a meeting of the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, during which moon sighting testimonies were received from different parts. After reviewing the evidence, committee chairman Maulana Abdul Khabir Azad confirmed that the Rajab moon had been sighted. As a result, 1st of Rajab will be observed on Monday across the sub continent and other countries, on December 22, 2025, according to the announcement.

The committee also stated that Shab-e-Mehraj will be observed on the evening of Friday, January 16, 2026, InshaAllah.

Rajab is one of the four sacred months in the Islamic calendar and holds special religious significance for Muslims, with increased emphasis on worship and reflection during the month.

Traditionally, Rajab is seen as a month of preparation, a time to slow down, reflect, and reconnect with faith.Historically, Rajab has been associated with peace and restraint, as fighting was forbidden during this sacred period. Spiritually, many believers increase voluntary prayers, fasting, and acts of charity, even though no specific obligation is tied exclusively to the month.

The 27th night of Rajab is widely observed as Shab-e-Mehraj, commemorating the miraculous night journey of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), which adds to the month’s reverence.