Death of Prophet Muhammad

The Death of Prophet Muhammad occurs annually on the 28th day of the Islamic month of Safar and this year, that falls on August 22. Each year the date of the public holiday in Iran changes based on the sightings of the moon. Not only does this day commemorate the Death of Prophet Muhammad but also the Martyrdom of Imam Hassan. Both of these are important events to Shi’a Muslims.

The day is observed with a simple dinner followed by prayers and a sermon at the mosque. The observance provides followers an opportunity to focus on the important teaching of the Prophet. The basic teachings are to be good and do good and to refrain from doing immoral things and committing vices.

Ancestors’ Day

Pchum Ben or Ancestor’s Day is celebrated every year on the 15th day of the tenth month in the Khmer calendar and this year, it is held from September 21 to September 28. It is a Cambodian religious holiday that is often referred to as “Ancestor’s Day” or the “Ancestors Festival.” The festivities last for 15 days before culminating in a final celebration on Pchum Ben. The first 14 days of the Khmer month Pheakta Bot are called Kan Ben. It is the longest and most unique festival in Cambodia. The day is spent paying respects to deceased relatives of up to seven generations. For Cambodians, it is during this time that the gates of hell are opened and the spirits of the ancestors are active.

Afghanistan Independence Day

Afghanistan Independence Day is on August 19. Did you know that the holiday does not celebrate Afghanistan’s Independence from Britain because it was never part of the British empire? It is celebrated to commemorate their independence from British influence and the treaty of Rawalpindi (or Anglo-Afghan Treaty), which recognized the independence and sovereignty of Afghanistan. It is celebrated in the country with official speeches and military displays, and Afghans celebrate with their national dance called ‘attana,’ decorating their homes and displaying the national flag.