‘Shab-e-Barat’ brings a day to seek forgiveness

LUDHIANA: “Shab-e-Barat”, considered the night of salvation by Muslims, was celebrated on Thursday night in the city with special prayers at mosques and Muslim homes.
The 15th night of the Islamic month “Shabaan” is known as “Shab-e-Barat” and it means the night of forgiveness. Shahnawaz Ahmed, an MNC employee from Shivaji Nagar, says, “The faithful offer special prayers and follow the practice adopted by our holy prophet by visiting the graves of their near and dear ones.After praying throughout Thursday night, Muslims will also observe a fast on Friday.”
Chartered accountant Manzoor Aalam from Haibowal says, “It is believed that one may gain forgiveness for all sort of misdeeds on this night by offering special prayers to Allah.” Mosques were decorated with colourful lights and candles lit up Muslim homes on “Shab-e-Barat”.
Shahi-Imaam of Punjab Maulana Habib-ur-Rehman Saani Ludhianvi says, “It is a night of forgiveness and good fortune. The Prophet used to visit the graveyard on this night to make people aware of death, so that they may repent for their past sins and return to the right path.” Special arrangements have been made for prayers at Shahi Mosque and sweet water will be distributed on this occasion, he added.