KARACHI: The Sindh government has declared January 17 a public holiday for both public and private schools across the province in observance of Shab-e-Meraj, according to an official notification issued on Tuesday.
The announcement states that all educational institutions in Sindh will remain closed on this day to allow students and staff to participate in religious observances.
Every year on the 27th of Rajab in the lunar calendar, Muslims commemorate Shab-e-Meraj, which marks the miraculous night journey and ascension of Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him). According to Islamic tradition, the Prophet was taken on a divine journey aboard the heavenly creature ‘al-Buraq,’ crossing through seven skies to meet Allah Almighty.
During this spiritual ascent, the Prophet (PBUH) drew very close to the Divine Throne and was granted divine knowledge. It was during this night that Allah ordained the five daily prayers (Salat) for all Muslims.
On the night of Meraj, Muslims gather at mosques after Isha prayer for special prayers that continue until Fajr. Many communities organize Mahafil-e-Naat, recitations, and religious gatherings to honor the holy night.
Homes, streets, and mosques are decorated with colorful banners and buntings, and the night is illuminated with electric lights, candles, or oil lamps. Devotees also visit the graves of loved ones to seek Allah’s blessings for the departed souls.
In addition to religious activities, schools and workplaces observe the holiday by remaining closed, enabling the faithful to participate in various spiritual and communal observances.
