Educational institutions to remain closed in Sindh on Jan 28

KARACHI: The Sindh Education Department on Friday announced that the educational institutions would remain closed in the province on January 28 on account of Shab-e-Mairaj.

According to the notification issued by the department, the holiday has been announced to observe Shab-e-Miraj, the Night of Ascent, with great religious zeal.

Muslims every year on the 27th of Rajab (Lunar calendar) observe the Shab-e-Mairaj to mark the Isra (journey) and Mairaj (ascension) of Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) who was taken on a special journey to meet Allah Almighty, crossing seven skies on the heavenly animal named 'al-Buraq'.

The Holy Prophet (PBUH) continued his heavenly tour until he reached very close to the Throne of Allah Almighty and attained the utmost nearness to Him. After having drunk from the Divine fountain of spiritual knowledge, he came down to impart the knowledge to mankind.

On that Night of Ascent, Allah Almighty also gave the order of the five daily Salat (Prayers) as being mandatory for the Muslims.

Faithful would gather at mosques after Isha to offer special prayers that would continue till Fajr prayers, while different gatherings and Mahafil-e-Naat are being arranged to mark the holy night.

The houses, streets and especially mosques are decorated with colourful pennants and buntings whereas at night these are well illuminated using electric lights, candles or even oil lamps.

Besides, people visit graves of their near and dear ones, seeking Allah Almighty’s blessings for the departed souls.