Dhaka, Jan 30 (V7N) — The moon of the holy month of Shaban (1446 AH) was not sighted in Bangladesh on Thursday. As a result, the month of Shaban will begin on Saturday, February 1. Accordingly, the holy night of Shab-e-Barat will be observed on Friday night, February 14.

The decision was made at a meeting of the National Moon Sighting Committee held on Thursday evening at the Baitul Mukarram National Mosque. The meeting was presided over by Religious Advisor Dr. A. F. M. Khalid Hossain.

Shab-e-Barat, known as the "Night of Liberation", holds special significance in Islam. The Persian term ‘Shaab’ means night, and ‘Barat’ means salvation or freedom. Muslims across the country will spend the night engaged in prayers, Quran recitation, and dhikr (remembrance of Allah), seeking forgiveness for past sins and blessings for the future.

Shab-e-Barat also marks the countdown to Ramadan, as it precedes the holy month of fasting. Many believers begin their spiritual preparations for Ramadan from this night.

On this sacred occasion, devout Muslims will visit mosques, graveyards, and offer special prayers at home, seeking the mercy and blessings of Allah. Families also prepare traditional sweets and distribute food to neighbours and the less fortunate as part of the observance.

END/MSS/AJ