Daisy Watts
Apr 04, 2024
The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) declared on Thursday that it would be observing a three-day break for the upcoming Eid-ul-Fitr celebration.
According to the announcement, the central bank's doors will be closed from April 10th to April 12th, 2024, which falls on a Wednesday through Friday, in recognition of the public holiday marking Eid-ul-Fitr.
"The State Bank of Pakistan will remain closed from 10th to 12th April, 2024 (Wednesday to Friday) being public holidays on the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr," read the statement.
This decision aligns with the earlier notice from the federal government, which proclaimed a three to four-day holiday period for Eid-ul-Fitr. The duration of the break varies based on whether offices operate on a five or six-day working week schedule.
Eid-ul-Fitr's exact date this year hinges on the lunar calendar, with the festivities expected to commence on either April 10th or 11th, subject to the moon's sighting.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has indicated that the new crescent moon, marking a significant Islamic occasion, is expected to form on April 8 at 11:21pm. By the time of the Maghrib prayer the following day, the crescent will be approximately 19 to 20 hours old and visible for over 50 minutes after sunset.
On April 9, the sky is forecasted to be clear in most parts of the country, enhancing the visibility of the crescent. However, cloud cover might obstruct views in northern regions.
The sighting of the crescent moon is crucial as it determines the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting, and the beginning of Shawwal, marked by the celebration of Eid ul Fitr.
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is a period dedicated to fasting, self-discipline, and charity, while Eid ul Fitr following it is a time of festivity and joy. Unlike the Gregorian calendar, the Islamic calendar is based on lunar cycles, making it about 10 days shorter.
This lunar basis means Islamic months, including Ramadan, can be either 29 or 30 days long and do not correspond to fixed dates annually in the Gregorian calendar. As a result, the dates for Ramadan and Eid vary each year.
