When is Ashura in 2026?         

 Ashura in 2026 will be on Thursday, June 25, 2026 (10 Muharram 1448 AH). The Countdown begins at sunset on Wednesday, June 24, 2026.

Is Ashura a public holiday in Pakistan?

 Yes, Ashura is a public holiday in Pakistan. Government offices, schools, banks, and most businesses remain closed on the 9th and 10th of Muharram .

What is the Day of Ashura?

Ashura, known as the tenth of Muharram, marks a solemn occasion in the Islamic lunar calendar. Derived from Asharah, meaning ten, it falls in the first month of the year. This day is observed and recommended by the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) as a day of fasting, a practice also seen among the Jews commemorating the deliverance of the Israelites and Prophet Moses (Musa) from the tyranny of Pharaoh in Egypt. Muslims are advised to fast on the ninth, tenth, or eleventh days. The day commemorates historical events, including the martyrdom of Imam Hussein ibn Ali, the grandson of the Prophet, along with his family and companions in the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. This event is a significant mark in Islamic history.

What is the history of the Day of Ashura?

The battle of Karbala

The Battle of Karbala occurred in Muharram, 61 AH, in Iraq. It involved a small army of the family and companions of Imam Hussain (AS), the grandson of the Prophet (PBUH), and a larger force sent by Yazid ibn Muawiyah, the Umayyad Caliph. Imam Hussain refused to pledge allegiance to the tyrannical Caliph, who had assumed Muslim leadership after the death of his father. On the 10th Day of Ashura, Imam Hussain was martyred in the enemy camp. This significant event in Islamic history involved 72 martyrs, mainly male members of the Prophet’s family, who nobly sacrificed their lives in a stand against oppression to preserve Islam. Imam Hussain, close and precious to the Holy Prophet (SAW), was beloved even as a child, freely climbing on his back during prayer. He was brutally decapitated, marking one of the most tragic events in Islamic history. His position is honored in the Hadith: “Al-Husain is from me and I am from Al-Husain. Whoever loves Al-Husain is loved by Allah.” (Musnad Ahmad)

The story of Musa

During the time of Prophet Musa (AS), on the Day of Ashura, Allah saved the Prophet and Bani Israel from the tyrannical Pharaoh and his army. The Pharaoh, violent and corrupt in his rule, declared himself as God and spread blasphemy. Prophet Musa refused to follow him and encouraged him to worship Allah, a power higher than himself. In response, Pharaoh sent a large army to destroy the Prophet and his followers. As they were chased, they trusted Allah alone for protection. Musa made a famous Dua, later revealed in the Holy Quran: “Truly my Lord is with me, He will guide me through.” Through his patience and firm faith, Allah helped him by parting the Red Sea so they could pass to safety. Pharaoh and his army were punished and submerged. Inspired by Allah, Moses struck the sea with his staff, and each portion rose like a great towering mountain. The pursuers were drowned. In this is a sign for believers. Truly, your Lord is the Exalted in Might, the Merciful.