Reporting snapshot · 19 January 2026. The article follows the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee's announcement as reported by Samaa TV on the evening of 19 January.
What happened
The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee announced that the Shaban moon was not sighted in Pakistan on Monday, 19 January 2026. Committee chairman Abdul Khabir Azad confirmed that the crescent of Shaban was not sighted in any part of the country and that no testimony had been received. As a result, the first day of Shaban 1447 AH will be observed on Wednesday, 21 January.
Why it matters
The finding fixes the start of Shaban, the eighth month of the Islamic calendar, and sets the date of Shab-e-Barat, the 15th night of Shaban, which is scheduled for 4 February 2026. The committee’s announcement aligns religious observances across the country.
Background
Shaban precedes Ramadan. It is believed that the Qiblah was changed from Al-Aqsa Mosque to the Kaabah in Mecca during the month, and fasting in Shaban is recommended by the Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) as preparation for Ramadan. Many Muslims mark Shab-e-Barat, also known as the “Night of Records”, with special prayers, recitation of the Quran and charity.
Sources & reporting notes
This article summarises published reporting and is not eyewitness reconstruction. Sources were reviewed on 19 January 2026.
- Samaa TV — Shaban moon not sighted in Pakistan19 January 2026 · The committee's finding, chairman Abdul Khabir Azad's statement, and the dates for Shaban and Shab-e-Barat.
