‘Shab-e-Barat’, also known as the ‘night of forgiveness’, is a significant festival observed on the 14th and 15th night of Sha’aban, the eighth month in the Islamic calendar. Muslims across the country came together to celebrate this holy festival on Sunday. In numerous countries, during the night of Shab-e-Barat, communities gather to seek forgiveness for the sins and wrongdoings of their departed ancestors. This act is believed to usher in goodness, goodwill, and optimism for the future.
On this auspicious occasion, the Shahi Imam of Delhi’s Jama Masjid, Syed Ahmed Bukhari, declared his son as his successor in a ‘dastarbandi’ ceremony held at the courtyard of the grand mosque. The ceremony is led by tying a ‘dastarbandi’ (turban) on the head of the next Imam, followed by prayers.
Syed Ahmed Bukhari said, “This is the night of prayer. It’s the night of forgiveness from sins. Everyone should pray in silence and later everyone should go to their homes.”
Shab-e-Barat celebrations were observed at Nizamuddin Darga, in Delhi
In anticipation of the Shab-e-Baraat celebrations, Delhi Police officials established multiple checkpoints across the National Capital to uphold law and order. Huge crowds were seen praying in the sacred Darga.
With celebrations continuing nationwide, Lights adorned Srinagar’s Dargah Hazratbal Shrine as people gathered in significant numbers. The same enthusiam could be felt at ‘Bada Qabristaan’ in Mumbai. People hummed religious hymns at Uttar Pradesh’s Aligarh.
Shoaib Khatib, Trustee of Jumma Masjid in Mumbai said, “Bada Qabristaan in Mumbai has a history of 200 years. It is spread over 8 acres. People of those who have passed away come here and pray for them. Mumbai Police has made wonderful arrangements. Whatever guidelines were made, everyone followed them. People who come here also worship peacefully. The Masjid Trust makes arrangements a month before the Shab-e-Baraat.”
The term ‘Shab’ originates from Persian, signifying ‘night’, whereas ‘Barat’, an Arabic word, symbolizes ‘salvation’ and ‘forgiveness’. During the night of Shab-e-Barat, Muslims globally seek forgiveness for their transgressions from Allah. During this night, prayers are offered for departed and ailing family members, with the belief that Allah determines individuals’ fortunes for the forthcoming year, their sustenance, and the possibility of undertaking the Hajj pilgrimage.
This celebration is enthusiastically observed throughout South Asia, spanning countries such as India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Azerbaijan, Turkey, as well as Central Asian nations like Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, and Kyrgyzstan.
Further, Shab-e-Barat has its unique traditions, depending on cultural diversity and local traditions. Throughout the day, Muslims make delectable sweets such as Halwa, Zarda, and other treats to share with their neighbors, relatives, family members, and the less fortunate. Numerous individuals visit the graves of their dear ones to seek eternal peace for their souls. Additionally, some choose to observe a fast during Shab-e-Barat.
Mosques are adorned with flowers and lights. Many of them have periodic recitations and announcements throughout the day, before preparing for the main events of the night. After sundown, Muslim devotees start their prayers with ‘Isha Ki Namaz’ and continue the prayer session throughout the night till the next day before eating Sehri, a pre-dawn meal before the fast for Shab-e-Barat.
