Srinagar, Jan 19,
Grand Mufti of Jammu and Kashmir, Mufti Nasir-ul-Islam Farooqi, on Monday announced that the Islamic month of Shaaban 1447 A.H will begin on Wednesday, January 21.
In a statement issued here to news agency, Mufti Farooqi said that no credible reports or eyewitness testimonies regarding the sighting of the Shaaban moon were received from anywhere in Jammu and Kashmir.
“As a result, the month will commence on January 21, 2026,” he added.
He further stated that the holy night of Shab-e-Baraat, which falls on the 14th of Shaaban, will be observed on the night of February 4, 2026, across the Union Territory.
Highlighting the religious significance of Shaaban, the Grand Mufti said the month serves as a spiritual preparation for the forthcoming Ramadan. “It is a time for increased worship, voluntary fasting, prayers, and seeking forgiveness,” he said.
Mufti Farooqi also noted that Islamic tradition considers Shaaban the month when deeds are presented before Allah. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) regularly fasted during Shaaban and encouraged believers to engage in prayer, charity, and remembrance of Allah.