The month of Shaban may start on January 20 in the year 2026, as it is the 8th and most significant month of the Islamic or Hijri calendar, and is the last lunar month before the holy month of Ramadan. The term Shaban comes from the Sha’ aba’, which is an Arabic word that means ‘emerge’, or ‘branch out’ which holds great importance in Islam. As per Muslims believe that Prophet Muhammad would offer fast (Roza) more in the holy or sacred month of Shaban than in any other month, excluding Ramadan.

Most individuals celebrate the birth anniversary of Sayyeda Zainab Bint Ali (sa) on 1 Shaban. This day is mainly celebrated by Shia individuals across the world.Sayyeda Zainab is the eldest granddaughter of Prophet Muhammad (s.a.) and Ummul Momineen Hazrat Khadija (sa) and also the elder daughter of Imam Ali (s.a.) and Hazrat Fatima Zahra (s.a.). She is also the sister of Imam Hasan (as), Imam Hussain (as) and her younger sister is Umme Kulsoom (sa).

Most Shia individuals celebrate the birth anniversary of Hazrat Zainab with festive gatherings and Manqabat (Devotional Poem).  Several Shia individuals go to Ziarat to Karbala and celebrate the birth anniversary of Sayyeda Zainab (sa). Many Shia individuals offer fast (Roza) to celebrate the birth anniversary of Sayyeda Zainab (sa).

1 Shaban Sayyeda Zainab Bint Imam Ali Mubarak to all my dear friends