Shab-e-barat is observed with great reverence and fervor among Muslim communities. is held either on the 13th day or the 14th day of Shaban, the 8th month in the Muslim calendar. This day happens to be on fifteen days before the beginning of Ramadan. In 2010, Shab-e-barat is to be celebrated on 28th July. In accordance to Muslim language, “Shab” means night and “Barat” means “the night of assignment or commission.”. It is celebrated as the night of accountability.
The festival of Shab-e-barat is popularly called Sob-e-barat, Sab-e-baraat and Boraks Nigh. On the night of Shab-e-barat, Muslims pray to ‘Allah’ – the Almighty to forgive their sins and adorn them with his grace. Some Muslims see this night as the night of good fortune. The celebrations are also very grand and divine. Muslims remain awake whole night. They reflect deeply into their lives and check whether they are leading life in accordance to the path of salvation. To mark this night, Muslims all over world illuminate their houses and mosques with lights. Special prayers are performed & some Muslims observe fast on the day. Visit to mosques and offering “Nawafil” at night is the most dominant feature of Shab-e-barat festival. All in all, the holy day is celebrated with immense wisdom & devotion.