The Sindh government has announced a public holiday for educational institutions in the province on the occasion of Shab-e-Meraj, according to a notification issued on Tuesday.
The notification said that public and private educational institutions in Sindh will remain closed on January 17.
Every year on the 27th of Rajab (lunar calendar), Muslims observe Shab-e-Meraj to mark the Isra (journey) and Meraj (ascension) of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), who was taken on a special journey to meet Allah Almighty, crossing seven heavens on the celestial animal named ‘al-Buraq’.
The Holy Prophet (PBUH) continued his celestial tour until he reached the throne of Allah Almighty and attained the greatest proximity to Him. After drinking from the divine fountain of spiritual knowledge, he descended to impart knowledge to humanity.
On this Ascension Night, Allah Almighty also gave the order of five daily Salat (prayers) as obligatory for Muslims.
Worshipers would gather at mosques after Isha to offer special prayers which would continue till the Fajr prayers, while different gatherings and Mahafil-e-Naat are organized to mark the holy night.
Houses, streets and especially mosques are decorated with colorful pennants and banners, while at night they are well lit by electric lamps, candles or even oil lamps.
Also, people visit the graves of their loved ones, seeking blessings from Allah Almighty for the souls of the departed.
Schools and workplaces are usually closed to celebrate the holidays.
