The first day of the month of Muharram is regarded as the beginning of Islamic New Year . Many Muslims consider this day to commemorate the significance of Muharram and the Hijra or emigration of Muhammad to Medina city. However, not all Muslims celebrate this particular day. The Shia Muslims specially observe this month as a month of mourning in honor of Imam Hussain, who was killed in the Battle of Karbala on Muharram 10 th .
The Islamic calendar is based on the lunar movements and hence has 354 days only. In comparison to the western calendar, the Islamic calendar goes 11 or 12 backwards every year. As a result, the month of Muharram migrates throughout the seasons. The years are counted from the year of Hegira and 2007 marks the beginning of A.H. (anno Hegirae) 1428. This was because it was only after the emigration to Medina that the Muslims were able to establish the first Muslim community and achieved social, economic and political independence.
Unlike the New Year celebrations of other cultures, the Islamic New Year is celebrated quietly. Prayers are offered and readings from Quran are done throughout the day. Muslims do not traditionally celebrate the starting of a new year but they take time to reflect upon human mortality. The most important aspect of the Islamic New Year is the narration of the story of the Flight to Medina. This story is broadcasted on radio for all to hear. The festive mood of other New Year celebrations is missing. However, nowadays, some people have started exchanging gifts and cards under the influence of western cultures.
