New Delhi: Shab-e-Barat is a sacred Islamic festival celebrated during the month of Sha’ban. It is one of the most important nights for Muslims, observed as a time for repentance and seeking forgiveness. Also known as the Night of Blessings, Shab-e-Barat is believed to be when Allah descends to the lowest heaven and grants salvation to the souls suffering in hell.
On this night, Muslims visit cemeteries to offer special prayers for their deceased ancestors. Many also give charity to the poor and needy. To mark the occasion, families prepare sweet dishes at home and engage in acts of devotion.
Shab-e-Barat falls on the 15th night of Sha’ban, the eighth month of the Islamic calendar. In 2025, the festival will be observed on 13th February in India. On this auspicious night, devotees seek forgiveness and pray to Allah, which is why many consider it a night of blessings.
This year, Shab-e-Barat will begin on the night of 13th February and continue until the morning of 14th February.
Fasting on Shab-e-Barat is considered a meaningful way to observe this sacred night. While it is not obligatory, it is recommended as an act of devotion that enhances spirituality and prepares believers for Ramadan. Observing a roza (fast) during Sha’ban is believed to cleanse the mind, body, and soul, making it a spiritually fulfilling practice.
During Shab-e-Barat, Muslims perform namaz and recite the Holy Quran at mosques or in their homes with their families. A common practice is offering six raka’ats of Shab-e-Barat Nawafil prayers (2+2+2) just after Maghrib prayers.
Celebrate this sacred night on 13th February 2025, seek forgiveness, and embrace the blessings of Shab-e-Barat.
