2026 Hazrat Ali Jayanti
| Date | Day | Holiday | States |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 Jan | Sat | Hazrat Ali Jayanti | Uttar Pradesh |
| 23 Dec | Wed | Hazrat Ali Jayanti | Uttar Pradesh |
2027 Hazrat Ali Jayanti
| Date | Day | Holiday | States |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12 Dec | Sun | Hazrat Ali Jayanti | Uttar Pradesh |
2028 Hazrat Ali Jayanti
| Date | Day | Holiday | States |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Dec | Fri | Hazrat Ali Jayanti | Uttar Pradesh |
Hazrat Ali Jayanti marks the birth anniversary of Hazrat Ali ibn Abi Talib, the fourth Caliph of Islam and the first Imam in Shia tradition, and is observed on the 13th day of the Islamic month of Rajab, especially with great devotion by Shia Muslims.
Hazrat Ali Jayanti is celebrated as the birth anniversary of Hazrat Ali ibn Abi Talib, cousin and son-in-law of Prophet Muhammad and a central figure in early Islamic history. He is revered for his courage, deep spirituality, justice, and knowledge, and is recognized as the fourth Caliph of Islam and the first Imam in Shia Islam.
The festival falls on the 13th day of the month of Rajab in the Islamic lunar calendar, so its Gregorian date changes every year. Many Muslim communities, especially Shia Muslims, observe this day with special prayers, sermons, and remembrance of Hazrat Ali’s character and teachings.
History and significance
Hazrat Ali was among the earliest males to accept Islam at a young age and stood by Prophet Muhammad during key moments in the early Muslim community. His bravery in major battles and his loyalty to the Prophet earned him titles such as “Asadullah” (Lion of Allah) and a special place in Islamic tradition.
His later role as the fourth Caliph is remembered for an emphasis on justice, ethical leadership, and protection of the weak. For Shia Muslims, his birth is also a deeply spiritual event, as he is regarded as the first Imam and a guide in matters of faith, spirituality, and governance.
How Hazrat Ali Jayanti is celebrated
On Hazrat Ali Jayanti, mosques and religious centers organize special gatherings where scholars recount incidents from Hazrat Ali’s life and highlight his teachings on justice, piety, and compassion. People recite Qur’an, offer nafl (voluntary) prayers, and send blessings upon the Prophet and his family.
In many regions, processions, religious lectures (majlis), and community meals are arranged to strengthen unity and brotherhood. Some devotees also engage in acts of charity such as feeding the poor or supporting community initiatives, considering it a way of honoring Hazrat Ali’s example of generosity.
Hazrat Ali Jayanti dates and holiday status
Hazrat Ali Jayanti is an important religious observance but is not a nationwide compulsory public holiday in many countries. In India, it is widely recognized as an optional or restricted holiday, while some states, such as Uttar Pradesh, treat it as an official public holiday with closures of government offices and schools.
For any given year, the Gregorian date depends on the sighting of the moon and the confirmation of the 13th of Rajab by local religious authorities. Many Islamic and holiday-information sites publish updated date lists each year so that devotees can plan their observances.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Hazrat Ali Jayanti?
Hazrat Ali Jayanti is the birth anniversary of Hazrat Ali ibn Abi Talib, the cousin and son-in-law of Prophet Muhammad and the fourth Caliph of Islam. It is mainly observed by Muslims, particularly Shia Muslims, on the 13th day of Rajab in the Islamic calendar.
Why is Hazrat Ali important in Islam?
Hazrat Ali is important because he was one of the first males to accept Islam, a close companion of the Prophet, and a key leader in the early Muslim community. He is revered for his courage in battle, knowledge of Islamic law, and exemplary justice during his caliphate, and is regarded as the first Imam in Shia belief.
How is Hazrat Ali Jayanti celebrated?
The day is observed with special prayers, recitation of Qur’an, and sermons describing Hazrat Ali’s life and teachings. Many communities hold religious gatherings, processions, and communal meals, and some people engage in charity to honor his legacy of compassion and service.
Is Hazrat Ali Jayanti a public holiday?
In several countries it is a religious observance rather than a uniform national public holiday. In India, it is generally treated as an optional or restricted holiday, but some states such as Uttar Pradesh declare it a public holiday for government offices and certain institutions.
On which date is Hazrat Ali Jayanti observed each year?
Hazrat Ali Jayanti is observed on the 13th of Rajab in the Islamic lunar calendar, and its corresponding Gregorian date changes annually. Local moon sighting and official announcements by religious authorities determine the exact civil date in each region.