Shab-e-Barat observed

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The holy Shab-e-Barat, the night of fortune, was observed across the country Saturday night with due solemnity and religious fervour, reports UNB.

Muslim devotees spent the night at mosques and homes, offering special prayers and reciting from the holy Quran. They also held Milad Mahfil, visited the graves of their near and dear ones and offered Fateha for the peace of the departed souls.

They distributed sweets and homemade food among the poor, their neighbours, friends and relatives.

Many homes and streets were also illuminated with candles and strands of lighted electric bulbs to provide a joyful ambience to the festival.

The observance of Shab-e-Barat has special significance for Muslims who consider it as one of the sacred things and believe that on this auspicious night Allah determines the fate of all living beings for the coming year.

Lailatul Baraat, popularly known as Shab-e-Barat, also marks the prelude to the holy month of Ramadan. It's a preparatory 15-day interlude between Lailatul Baraat and the month of self-abnegation.

The Islamic Foundation and other religious and socio-cultural organisations held Quran-khwani, Milad, Waz and discussion on the day.