Govt Announces Public Holiday on 1st Muharram

The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government has declared a public holiday on the 1st of Muharram, which marks the start of the Islamic New Year 1447 AH.

The announcement was made through a notification issued by the Provincial Department of Administrative Affairs. The exact date of the holiday will depend on the moon sighting, as confirmed by the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee.

On this day, all government offices, educational institutions, and business centers in KP will remain closed.

Importance of Muharram

Muharram is one of the four sacred months in Islam. The first day of Muharram is not only the start of the new Hijri year but also observed by many Muslims as Youm-e-Umar, in memory of Hazrat Umar ibn al-Khattab (RA). He was the second Caliph of Islam, who was martyred on 1st Muharram in the year 23 AH (644 CE).

Significance of Ashura

The 10th of Muharram, known as Ashura, is the most sacred day of this month. It marks the martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA), the beloved grandson of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). He, along with his family and loyal companions, was martyred in the Battle of Karbala, a tragic and historic event in Islamic history.

Muslims around the world observe Ashura as a day of mourning, remembrance, and reflection on the values of justice, sacrifice, and steadfastness.