New Delhi: Shab-e-Barat, an important and sacred night in Islam, is being observed across India today, 3 February 2026. This holy night starts after sunset on Tuesday and continues till early morning on Wednesday.
Shab-e-Barat comes in the Islamic month of Shaban, which is the eighth month of the Hijri calendar. It falls on the night between the 14th and 15th day of Shaban, about 15 days before the holy month of Ramadan begins.
Meaning of Shab-e-Barat
The word Shab means night and Barat means freedom or salvation. Together, Shab-e-Barat is known as the Night of Forgiveness. It is believed that on this night, Allah forgives sins and showers mercy on those who pray with a pure heart.
Religious importance
According to Islamic belief, this is a very special night when Allah:
Listens to prayers
Forgives past mistakes
Decides the future of people for the coming year
Religious scholars say that anyone who sincerely asks for forgiveness on this night can receive Allah’s mercy.
How Shab-e-Barat is observed
On Shab-e-Barat, people:
Offer special namaz and night prayers
Read the Quran
Ask forgiveness for their sins
Pray for health, peace, and prosperity
Give charity to the poor and needy
Visit graveyards to pray for departed souls
Mosques remain filled with devotees, and many people stay awake all night in worship.
Tradition and faith
In many parts of India, people prepare halwa and sweets and share them with family, friends, and neighbors. This practice shows love, kindness, and brotherhood.
In Sufi traditions, Shab-e-Barat has been celebrated with deep devotion and remembrance of Allah. It is seen as a night to clean the heart and move towards a better life.