Dharshini RDA 
Shab-e-Barat often referred to as the “Night of Forgiveness” is one of the greatest religious observances in the Islamic calendar especially for Muslims in South Asia like Pakistan, India and Bangladesh as well as Turkey and Iran.
It is observed on the night of the 15th of Sha’ban, the eighth month of the Islamic lunar calendar where this night is dedicated to praying for forgiveness and contemplating one on what he has done. Muslims generally spend the night reciting the Quran and performing other prayers.
Also in many cultures, it is customary to visit the graves of those who have departed to pray for their souls. It is common practice in countries like Pakistan and Bangladesh to prepare and distribute sweets to neighbors and the poor as well.
Date and Time of Shab-e-Barat in Pakistan 2025:
It is expected that in the year 2025, Shab-e-Barat will be observed in Pakistan commencing in the evening of Thursday, February 13 and continuing till the evening of Friday, February 14. Adapting to the Islamic (Hijri) calendar, it will be marked as the night of 15th Sha’ban 1446 AH.
The observance will begin after the Maghrib prayers approximately at 6:00 PM PKT in major cities on February 13 and will resonate until the Fajr prayers approximately at 5:30 PM PKT on February 14.
It is pertinent to remember that variations may follow the lunar sighting so local announcements would be considered in specifying the exact time.
On this night, several mosques in Pakistan organize special prayers and everyone tries to continue their personal worship for forgiveness. In essence, the night is a spiritual fast day before the holy month of Ramadan.
