Lailat al Bara’ah

This is a Muslim festival where people seek forgiveness for their sins. It is believed to be the night when Muslim’s fortunes for the coming year are decided. It is also know as Shaban, Shab e Barat or Mid Shaban.

Who celebrates?

Muslims around the world.

How do people celebrate?

• It is a night of prayer, whether at home or in Mosques
• Some culture will also visit relatives’ graves and have firework displays
• It is also a time of giving to charity including the giving of sweet foods such as halva or zarda.

What should I know?

• It is not considered a religious requirement
• Shia Muslims believe it is the date that the Imam al-Mahdi was born who they believe to the the 12th and final Imam
• 4.8% of the UK identified as Muslim in the 2011 census

How can I support others?

• Ask people if they or their families will be celebrating
• Be sensitive to the fact that the day may have different meanings for different Muslim people
• Do not assume that if someone is Muslim that they will be celebrating or fasting
• Encourage celebrations internally and externally
• Talk to your team about the religious representation internally and externally and if it’s representative of your area.

BBC: Lailat al Bara’ah: https://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/religions/islam/holydays/lailatulbarah.shtml

Zarda recipe:

https://www.greatbritishchefs.com/recipes/zarda-pulao-recipe