Shab-e-Barat is the night between the 14th and 15th of Sha’ban, the month before Ramadan. This year it is expected on the evening of Saturday, January 23, 2027 (14 Shaban 1448 AH), depending on the moon sighting in Pakistan.
What the night means
For many Muslims in South Asia, Shab-e-Barat is a night of forgiveness and prayer. People ask Allah to forgive their sins and to bless the year ahead. Its name comes from the Persian and Urdu words for night (shab) and release or salvation (barat).
How it is observed in Pakistan
Common practices include extra prayers and reading the Quran at home or in the mosque, visiting graveyards to pray for relatives who have passed away, and giving charity. Many families cook halwa and share it with neighbours, and some people fast on the 15th of Sha’ban.
Scholars hold different views on which practices on this night are recommended. If you want guidance for yourself, ask a scholar you trust.
Getting ready for Ramadan
Shab-e-Barat comes about two weeks before Ramadan, so it is a reminder to prepare. See the Ramadan countdown and sehri and iftar timings for your city.