Islamabad: The Government of Pakistan has commenced the Ashra Rahmatul-lil-Alameen (SAW) celebrations, marking the start of the 1500th blessed birth anniversary of the Holy Prophet Hazrat Muhammad (Sallallho Alaihe Wassallam) in the year 1447 Hijri. Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, Sardar Muhammad Yousaf, announced the celebrations at a news conference, highlighting that they will run from the 1st to the 12th of Rabi-ul-Awwal.

According to Radio Pakistan, the highlight of the celebrations will be the 50th International Seerat-un-Nabi Conference, scheduled to take place in Islamabad. The conference is set to attract participation from government officials, Ulema, diplomats, and delegates from various regions. Alongside the conference, a national “Qur’an and Seerat Exhibition” will be hosted, featuring manuscripts, publications, and digital content related to the Qur’an and Seerat. Additionally, a national Naat competition will take place on the night of 11th Rabi-ul-Awwal, with prizes awarded to winners of the 2025 national Seerat books, Naat, and essay contests.

The Minister also announced this year’s theme: “State Responsibilities in Educating and Training for the Beneficial Use of Social Media, in the Light of the Life of the Holy Prophet (Sallallho Alaihe Wassallam).” Provincial governments, including Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan, have been urged to organize related events, encompassing Seerat conferences, Naat gatherings, seminars, competitions, and programs for students and youth.

Sardar Muhammad Yousaf emphasized the role of educational institutions in hosting special events, speech competitions, and awareness programs on Seerat-un-Nabi. The aim is to help the younger generation engage with the teachings of the Holy Prophet (Sallallho Alaihe Wassallam) and to promote the constructive use of modern media platforms.