Eidul Adha is expected to be celebrated across Pakistan on Saturday, June 7, as astronomers predict that the moon marking the start of Zilhaj will most likely be sighted on May 28.
Renowned astronomer Dr Faheem Hashmi shared insights into the lunar cycle, explaining that the new moon will not be visible on May 27, as it will be just 11 hours old at sunset -- too young to be sighted with the naked eye.
“However,” he added, “the moon will be over 35 hours old by May 28, significantly increasing the chances of visibility across Pakistan.” Based on these astronomical calculations, Zilhaj is expected to begin on May 29, leading to Eidul Adha falling on June 7, which is the 10th day of the Islamic month.
Eidul Adha is one of the two major Islamic festivals. It commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son in obedience to God’s command.
The final confirmation regarding the moon sighting will be made by the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, which officially announces the beginning of Islamic months in Pakistan after receiving reports from across the country.
