The Sindh government has announced a holiday for educational institutions across the province on the occasion of Shab-e-Meraj, according to a notification issued on Tuesday.
The notification said that both public and private educational institutions in Sindh will remain closed on January 17.
Muslims observe the 27th Rajab (lunar calendar) Shab-e-Meraj every year 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 in the name of the celestial-Bqura animal.
The Holy Prophet (PBUH) continued his heavenly journey until he reached very close to the Throne of Allah Almighty and attained the greatest closeness to Him. After drinking from the divine fountain of spiritual knowledge, he descended to impart knowledge to mankind.
On this night of Ascension, Allah Almighty also ordered the five daily Salat (prayers) as being obligatory for the Muslims.
The faithful would gather at mosques after Isha to offer special prayers that would continue until Fajr prayer, while various gatherings and Mahafil-e-Naat are being organized to mark the holy night.
The houses, streets and especially the mosques are decorated with colorful pennants and porridge, while at night these are well lit with electric lights, candles or even oil lamps.
Also, people visit the graves of their near and dear ones and seek the blessings of Allah Almighty for the departed souls.
Schools and workplaces are typically closed for holidays.
