Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar, marks the beginning of the Islamic New Year and is one of the four sacred months in Islam. In 2025, Muharram may be observed on either July 6 or July 7 in India, depending on the sighting of the moon. While the official Muharram holiday is scheduled for Sunday, July 6, it could be shifted to Monday, July 7, if the new moon is not sighted on time. The final confirmation will be based on the lunar sighting.
Muharram is a public holiday in India, which means that all schools, banks, government offices, and some private businesses will remain closed. The National Stock Exchange (NSE) and Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) will also remain shut, halting trading across equity, equity derivatives, currency derivatives, and interest rate markets for the day.
In addition, the Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX) will suspend trading during the morning session and resume operations in the evening session from 5:00 PM to 11:30/11:55 PM.
Why Muharram is Observed?
Muharram is not just the start of the Islamic calendar year—it holds deep historical and emotional significance for Muslims. The 10th day of Muharram, known as Ashura, is especially solemn, marking the martyrdom of Imam Hussein ibn Ali, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, in the Battle of Karbala in 680 AD. For the Shia Muslim community, Ashura is a day of mourning and reflection, observed with prayers, fasting, and processions.
As Muharram 2025 approaches, Indians should stay updated with the moon sighting news to confirm the exact holiday date. Whether observed on July 6 or July 7, it will be a significant day for religious observance and will affect public services and trading activities nationwide.
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