The new Islamic year, 1447 Hijri, is expected to begin on Friday, June 27, as astronomical forecasts suggest that the moon of Muharram is unlikely to be sighted on Tuesday, June 25.
Experts say the birth of the new moon will take place on June 25 at 3:31pm Pakistan time. Due to this timing, it will not be visible to the naked eye in South Asia and the Middle East that evening. However, visibility may be possible through telescopes in some parts of the United States.
Astronomers believe the chances of moon visibility are stronger on Wednesday, June 26. If the moon is sighted on that day, the first of Muharram will fall on Friday, June 27, in most countries, including Pakistan.
If the Islamic month of Muharram starts on June 27, then Youm-e-Ashura — the 10th of Muharram — will be observed on Sunday, July 6.
Religious authorities in Pakistan, including the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, are expected to meet on June 26 to collect and verify moon sighting reports. An official announcement on the start of the Islamic new year will be made following their decision.
Muharram holds great religious significance in Islam and marks the beginning of the Hijri calendar.
