The crescent moon marking Shawwal will not be visible on March 29, suggesting that Eid Al Fitr will be celebrated on March 31 in most of the Islamic world. Some regions may celebrate on March 30 due to traditional practices. Authorities stress reliance on scientific evidence for moon sightings.
The International Astronomy Centre has declared that the crescent moon, marking the beginning of Shawwal, will not be visible across the Arab and Islamic world on Saturday, March 29. This is attributed to the moon setting before the sun, rendering sighting impossible by any means. Consequently, countries reliant on actual moon sightings will likely extend Ramadan to 30 days, with Eid Al Fitr anticipated on Monday, March 31.
In certain regions where the conjunction of the moon occurs before sunset, some countries may initiate Eid celebrations on Sunday, March 30. This decision is often based on traditional moon-sighting practices. Additionally, a partial solar eclipse is expected on Saturday, visible in parts of western Arab nations, signifying that the crescent moon would not be observed during that time.
Authorities have underscored the importance of adhering to scientific findings, cautioning against false announcements regarding the crescent’s visibility. Such claims would contradict verified astronomical data. Earlier predictions from the Pakistan Space & Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco) indicated that the Shawwal moon would be observable on March 30, reinforcing the possibility of Eid ul-Fitr celebrations on Monday, March 31, 2025. This alignment suggests a unified observance of Eid across a significant portion of the Islamic world on that date.
In summary, due to the unobservable crescent moon on March 29 and scientific predictions, Muslim communities in the Arab world and Pakistan are likely to celebrate Eid Al Fitr on March 31. Some regions may choose to declare Eid on March 30 based on traditional practices. Authorities emphasize adherence to astronomy in determining Eid dates, discouraging any unfounded claims of moon sightings.
Original Source: tribune.com.pk
