Dates for your 2006 calendar

January
8-13 Hajj
The fifth pillar of Islam is a once-in-a-lifetime pilgrimage to Makkah, during 8-13 of Dhul-Hijjah, the month of Hajj. Involving around 2.5 million people from all backgrounds, it is the largest gathering of Muslims anywhere in the world.

10 Eid-ul-Adha
This festival marks the sacrifice made by Prophet Abraham (peace be upon him). People celebrate this festival with an Eid prayer on the morning of the first day, and share meat with their relatives and the poor.

31 Al-Hijra
The first day of the Muslim New Year. It marks the time when Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) travelled from Makkah to Madina.

February
9 Ashurah
People mark the tenth day of the month of Muharram. On this day, Shi?ite Muslims remember the suffering of Imam Husayn, grandson of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

September
8 Shobe-e-Barat
A special night of prayer ? usually for Muslims from the Indian sub-continent.

23 or 24 Ramadan
This is the most important month of the year for Muslims. It is a time for greater devotion to Allah, inner reflection, religious observance and self-control. It is also a time for Muslims to fast - from dawn to sunset every day. The exact start date of Ramadan may change, the date is set by sighting the crescent moon.

October
23 or 24 Eid-al-Fitr
People mark the end of Ramadan by gathering together for an extra morning prayer in the mosque. People of all ages celebrate the rest of the day visiting friends and relatives, and also make donations to charities.

December
31 Eid-ul-Adha
In 2006, Eid-ul-Adha is also celebrated on 10 January.