Muslim · 12 November 2026
Start of a Hijri month
हिजरी महीने की शुरुआत
A new Islamic month begins when the new crescent moon is sighted.
Why it is celebrated
Each of the twelve Hijri months begins on the evening the new crescent (hilal) is seen, and lasts 29 or 30 days. In India local moon-sighting committees (Ruet-e-Hilal) announce it.
The story behind it
The Quran says the new moons are “signs to mark fixed times for the people and for the Hajj”. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Fast when you see it, and end the fast when you see it.” Because the year is about 354 days, the months move through all the seasons over 33 years.
How to celebrate
- Look for the crescent after sunset on the 29th
- Say the dua on seeing the new moon
- Follow your local committee’s announcement
- Note the month’s special days on the calendar
More from this calendar
RamadanEid-ul-FitrEid-ul-Adha (Bakrid)Day of ArafahIslamic New Year (1 Muharram)Ashura (10 Muharram)Eid-e-Milad-un-NabiBirthday of Hazrat AliShab-e-MirajShab-e-BaratShab-e-Qadr (Laylat al-Qadr)Jumu’at-ul-Wida
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