Renowned astronomer Maulana Sameeruddin Qasmi has said that the moon for Eid al-Fitr will not be visible on 19 March in Pakistan, Bangladesh, Iran, India, Afghanistan and several other Asian countries. As a result, Eid is expected to be observed on Saturday, 21 March 2026.
The India-born astronomer, who is currently based in London, said in a video statement that according to Moonsighting.com, lunar visibility maps for different parts of the world show that on Thursday, 19 March, the moon in India will appear dark or reddish.
This indicates a five-degree moon, which would not be visible to the naked eye.
He added that on the same date the moon will be at around 10 degrees in the United States, meaning Eid there is likely to fall on 20 March.
Responding to a question from an Indian citizen, Maulana Sameeruddin said some people are observing the farewell Friday prayer on 13 March, which he said is incorrect, as the last Friday of Ramadan will fall on 20 March. He clarified that Eid in those regions will be observed on Saturday, 21 March, and cannot be celebrated earlier.
