Celebration of Mid-Shaban

Mid-Sha'ban is the 15th day of the eighth Islamic month (Shaaban) of the Islamic lunar calendar. The Twelver Shias spend the entire night (from Sunset till dawn) of the 15th of Sha'ban performing prayers and recitations of the Holy Quran. This day also marks the birthday of the twelfth Imām, Muhammad al-Mahdi (p.b.u.h.). Shias believe in him as their twelfth holy Imam, Imam Mahdi’s an important figure, who, all Muslims believe, will get rid of the world of tyranny and injustice. Muslims besides prayers and recitation of the Holy Qura’n and supplications, celebrate this day by decorating and illuminating their houses and streets and offering sweets to everyone, far and near. 

Twelver Shia celebrates the birth anniversary of all the twelve holy Imam (p.b.u.h.). The birth anniversary of Hazrat Fatima al-Zahra (p.b.u.h.) 20th Jamadi us Sani has great importance for the Iranians. The day is celebrated as Mother's Day.