The eighth month of the Islamic calendar has begun in Pakistan after the sighting of the moon of Shaban, along with which the practical preparations for the arrival of Ramadan have also begun.
With the beginning of Shaban, the process of mental and practical preparation for Ramadan fasting, worship and spiritual activities intensifies among Muslims. Ramadan is the holy month in which the Holy Quran was revealed and which is known as the month of piety, patience and mercy.
If the month of Shaban consists of 29 days according to the lunar calendar, then Ramadan is likely to begin in Pakistan from February 19, 2026. However, if Shaban completes 30 days, the first fast will be observed on February 20, 2026.
Both these dates are based on initial estimates, while the final announcement of the beginning of Ramadan will be made by the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee.
The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee has called a meeting on February 18 to sight the Ramadan moon. The meeting will take a decision taking into account the testimonies received from across the country, weather conditions and astronomical information.
The head of the committee, Maulana Abdul Khabir Azad, will preside over the meeting, after which an official announcement regarding the start of Ramadan will be made.
The spiritual importance of Ramadan
Ramadan is considered a month of self-accountability, worship and charity for Muslims. During this time, Taraweeh is organized in mosques, recitation of the Quran is increased and special attention is paid to helping the poor.
This month teaches people moral improvement, patience and tolerance, while it ends with the joys of Eid-ul-Fitr.
With the beginning of Shaban, the trend of Ramadan shopping in the markets has started increasing, while special arrangements have started in mosques and madrasas.
People are now waiting for the announcement of the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee so that the final date of Ramadan can officially begin.