The Islamic festival of Shab-e-Meraj, also known as Isra and Meraj or Al Isra Wal Miraj (Holy Night), takes place on the 27th day of the month of Rajab (Islamic calendar 7th month). Shab E Meeraj translates to "Night of Ascension." The Ascension occurred on the 27th of Rajab, two years before Hijra. The Holy Prophet encountered Adam, Abraham, Moses, Jesus, and other Prophets along the journey. The objective of the Ascension was to confirm the Prophet of Islam's elevated rank. A status that all Muslims believe no other human being could ever achieve.

Shab E Meeraj will be observed on February 28th, 2022 in India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh (27th of Rajab). The date will be commemorated in Saudi Arabia and other Middle Eastern countries on March 1, 2022. The date is set based on the moon's appearance in that area.

It commemorates Prophet Muhammad's pilgrimage from Mecca's Grand Mosque to Jerusalem's Masjid Al-Aqsa and then to the skies. During his journey, the Prophet rode the "Burqa" (Swift Horse) to heaven, where the Almighty gave him some instructions to pass on to the faithful regarding prayer details. The name Me'raj (Ascension of Prophet Muhammad (Pbuh)) comes from the Arabic word Urooj, which means 'height' or 'ascension.' It is found in Hadith. The incident is referred to in the Qur'an as 'Israa,' which means 'travel.'

Some groups consider Muhammad's nocturnal ascension – the Isra and Mi'raj – to have been an out-of-body experience that occurred in non-physical worlds. Even though his corpse remained where it was, they claim he was transferred to Jerusalem and subsequently to the Seven Heavens. Other Quranic interpretations emphasize Mi'raj's spiritual importance, claiming that it depicts the soul's journey and our ability to climb above the material comforts of life via prayer, discipline, and piety.

How is Shab-e-Meraj commemorated?
The 'Shab-e-Meraj' is a key event in Islamic history, and mosques arrange special congregations to commemorate the occasion, during which Islamic experts underline the significance of the 'Shab-e-Meraj' and the Prophet's teachings. Mosques hold special prayers to request Allah's forgiveness. Muslim devotees perform special prayers in mosques and at home to ask Allah, the Merciful, for blessings.

Electric lights and candles are used in Muslim countries to illuminate towns and mosques. Worshippers will congregate in mosques to offer prayers, with some passing on their knowledge by informing others about how the archangel Gabriel cleaned Muhammad's heart and gave him the knowledge and faith he needed to enter the seven levels of heaven.