KARACHI: The Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SPARCO) has announced the sighting predictions for the Ramadan moon for the year 2025, according to ARY News. The new moon is expected to occur on February 28, 2025, at 5:45 PM Pakistan Standard Time. Despite this, SPARCO has cautioned about visible challenges for the crescent moon sighting on the same evening.
"Due to the moon’s low altitude and distance on February 28th, it will be difficult to see the crescent," stated the spokesperson for SPARCO. The moon will only be 12 hours old at sunset, sitting at just 5 degrees above the horizon, with only 7 degrees separation from the sun, making visibility unlikely for observers.
Based on these observations, Ramadan is projected to commence on March 2, 2025, within Pakistan. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia may have the crescent moon visible on February 28, possibly signaling Ramadan's start there on March 1, 2025.
Notably, SPARCO also anticipates the Shawwal moon to be sighted on March 30, hinting at Eid al-Fitr celebrations potentially occurring on March 31, 2025. It should be noted, these forecasts are predictions; the definitive announcement concerning the Ramadan moon sighting will be made by the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee.
Preparation for the moon sighting is also underway as the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee is scheduled to convene on February 28, 2025, in Peshawar. Chaired by Maulana Abdul Khabir Azad, the meeting will be held at the Auqaf Building on Eidgah Charsadda Road, commencing at 6:30 PM. Members from various sectors such as the Ministry of Science and Technology, the Pakistan Meteorological Department, and the Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission will be present, along with zonal members from Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi, and Quetta.
With Ramadan being one of the holiest months in the Islamic calendar, it marks a time of fasting, prayer, and community for Muslims across the globe. This year, Ramadan will predominantly begin on March 2, but with regional variations.
For many Muslims, Ramadan is not just about fasting from dawn till dusk, but it is also about engaging more deeply with their faith through increased prayer, Quran recitation, and charitable acts. The last ten nights of Ramadan are particularly significant, with Laylat al-Qadr, the Night of Power, being considered the most blessed night of the year.
Heartfelt wishes and messages are already being circulated for Ramadan 2025. These notes are meant to spread positivity and hope as the holy month approaches. Some of the popular Ramadan wishes for 2025 include:
- May this Ramadan bring you peace, prosperity, and endless blessings. Ramadan Mubarak!
- Wishing you a month filled with mercy, forgiveness, and joy. Ramadan Kareem!
- May Allah accept your prayers and grant you success. Ramadan Mubarak 2025!
- Let this Ramadan be one of growth and tranquility.
Many people also share messages in Urdu to convey their sentiments:
- اس رمضان کا مہینہ آپ کے لیے امن، برکتوں اور خوشحالی کا پیغام لائے۔ رمضان مبارک!
- اللہ آپ کے روزے اور دعائیں قبول فرمائے۔ آمین!
During Ramadan, Muslims also gather with family and friends during iftar, the evening meal where they break their fast, and sahoor, the pre-dawn meal to prepare for the fasting period.
The significance of Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan, serves as not only a celebration with loved ones but also as another occasion for charity and concern for those less fortunate.
The convenience of modern technology allows for connections through social media, where messages, quotes, and good wishes can be broadly shared, fostering community spirit.
Beyond the pleasures of food and fellowship, Ramadan is deeply rooted in spirituality and the pursuit of self-improvement. Muslims worldwide prepare themselves not just physically but also mentally and spiritually, with many striving to cultivate patience, humility, and generosity during this holy month.
Commemorations for Ramadan 2025 are set, with individuals eagerly anticipating the chance to observe and celebrate the month. The Ramadan moon sightings act as pivotal moments, setting the tone for this period of devotion and commitment to religious principles.
With the moon sighting ceremony only days away, communities are coming together to prepare for one of the most significant observances of the year. Here’s wishing everyone, Muslims and non-Muslims alike, peace and blessings during this spiritually uplifting time. Ramadan Mubarak!