Shab-i-Barat

Practice

According to belief, the destinies of men for the coming year are recorded on this night. All over India, Muslims stay awake all night. Sweets are sent to the houses of friends and relatives who died during the year, in their remembrance. Fatiha or blessings are recited over food in the name of the Prophet, his daughter Fatimah, and his son-in-law Ali. People also recite the Holy Koran. At night, the sky is ablaze with colourful fireworks that are set off in celebration.

Time: The night of the 14th Shabaan, in April / May.

Place: Common to Muslims all over the country.