The government’s declaration of a long weekend before the Eid celebrations is set to bring joy and excitement to the citizens. With the official notification stating that the Eidul Azha holiday will commence on June 29 and extend until July 1, people across the country are eagerly preparing for the festive occasion.
Eidul Azha Festivities: Dates and Delight
In a recent announcement, the federal government confirmed the dates for the upcoming Eidul Azha festivities. Maulana Abdul Khabir Azad, the Chairman of the Central Ruet-i-Hilal Committee, revealed that Pakistan will celebrate the first day of Eidul Azha on June 29. This decision was made following extensive meetings of the moon-sighting committee and zonal committees held in all provincial capitals.
Nationwide Testimonies of the Moon Sighting
Testimonies regarding the sighting of the moon of Zilhaj poured in from various areas, including Islamabad, Lahore, Bahawalpur, Khanpur, Ghotki, Karachi, Bahawalnagar, and Peshawar. The unanimous consensus reached by the committees was that the first of Zilhaj would fall on June 20, 2023, while Eidul Azha would be celebrated on June 29, 2023.
Expert Involvement in Moon Sighting
To ensure accurate moon sighting, the central and zonal Ruet-e-Hilal committees were accompanied by meteorological experts and members of the Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO). This collaborative effort aimed to provide the most reliable information regarding the sighting of the Zilhaj moon in Pakistan.
Significance of Eidul Azha
Eidul Azha holds immense significance as it marks the culmination of the Hajj pilgrimage, one of the five pillars of Islam. It is a sacred obligation for every Muslim who possesses the means to undertake this spiritual journey. As the faithful celebrate Eidul Azha, they partake in various rituals, including the sacrifice of animals and the distribution of meat among the less fortunate.
Regional Observance of Eidul Azha
Saudi Arabia, on the other hand, declared the sighting of the Zilhaj moon on Sunday, signaling the beginning of the Islamic month of Zilhaj from Monday, June 19. This development paves the way for the observance of Eidul Azha on Wednesday, June 28. Notably, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and several other Gulf nations traditionally celebrate both Eidul Fitr and Eidul Azha concurrently.
Conclusion
The government’s announcement of an extended holiday period in preparation for Eidul Azha has generated excitement among the populace. As the Eid celebrations draw near, people eagerly anticipate the festivities, spiritual observances, and the opportunity to bond with their loved ones. This joyous occasion serves as a reminder of the shared values and traditions that unite the Pakistani community.
