The Sindh government has announced a public holiday in educational institutions across the province on the occasion of Shab-e-Miraj.
According to a notification issued by the Sindh government, all public and private educational institutions throughout Sindh will remain closed on January 17 in observance of the religious occasion.
Muslims observe Shab-e-Meraj every year on the 27th of Rajab (Lunar calendar) to commemorate the Isra (night journey) and Meraj (ascension) of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). During this miraculous journey, the Prophet was carried on the heavenly creature al-Buraq, traversing the seven skies and reaching close to the Throne of Allah Almighty, where he attained ultimate spiritual proximity. He drank from the divine fountain of knowledge before returning to Earth to share this wisdom with mankind.
On this night, Allah also made the five daily prayers (Salat) obligatory for Muslims.
Devotees gather in mosques after Isha prayer to perform special prayers that continue until Fajr, while various religious gatherings and Mahafil-e-Naat are organized to honor the occasion.
Homes, streets, and especially mosques are adorned with colorful lights, pennants, and lamps, creating a festive atmosphere.
Many people also visit the graves of loved ones to pray for the departed. Schools, offices, and other workplaces are usually closed in observance of the holiday.
