Akhiri Chahar Shambah is the last Wednesday of Safar, the second month in the Islamic calendar. In both Arabic and Persian, the term “akhir” means “the last,” and “chahar shambah” translates to “Wednesday” in Persian.

The day is observed to commemorate the temporary recovery of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) from his final illness. Although he briefly felt better and took a bath, his condition soon worsened, and he passed away shortly afterward. The exact date of Akhiri Chahar Shambah is uncertain due to differing views on the date of the Prophet’s death. However, many biographers believe that the Prophet (PBUH) fell ill on the 18th of Safar, and his illness persisted for 13 days.

Muslims in various parts of the world, including Bangladesh—where the day is recognized as an optional Muslim holiday—observe it with great respect. In some places, a custom involves writing Quranic verses called the “Seven Salams,” and then washing off the saffron-infused ink to drink it, which is believed to protect against evil. During the Mughal period, special gatherings, or durbars, were held at the Delhi Fort, where emperors, princes, and nobles participated in the observance of this day

Akheri Chahar Shamba in 2024, it’s going to celebrate in September 2024 on Wednesday.

Nowhere in the Qur’an or Hadith is there any mention or instruction of any specific Dua regarding Akheri Chahar Somba. Therefore, one can worship on this day as per his wish. If any specific dua for Akheri Chahar Somba is found anywhere, it should be understood that it is not based on Quran and Hadith, because such dua is not mentioned in Quran and Hadith.

However, there are many people who observe Akhiri Chahar Somba, although there are no specific guidelines for observing this day from an Islamic point of view. Those who follow the Qur’an and Hadith do not feel the need for such supplications. But many of those who do not follow the religious instructions make or follow such prayers.

A true follower of Islam, who is aware of the Qur’an and Hadith, usually does not perform any special prayers or rituals to observe Akheri Chahar Somba. But many, especially in Bangladesh, celebrate this day as part of various festivals. According to the basic teachings of Islam, one should only follow the guidance given in the Qur’an and Hadith; And since the Qur’an and Hadith do not say anything about the Sombar prayer of Akheri Chahar, one should be careful about this.

Akheri Chahar Shamba is an observance in South Asia, particularly among Muslims, that takes place on the last Wednesday of the Islamic month of Safar. The event has roots in local customs and traditions, and while not universally practiced by all Muslims, it holds particular significance in certain communities.

The observance is often linked to an event during the life of the Prophet Muhammad. According to traditional accounts, it is believed that on the last Wednesday of the month of Safar, the Prophet recovered from a serious illness that he had been suffering from for some time. The recovery was seen as a sign of divine mercy and favor, and the day was marked by joy and gratitude among his followers.

To commemorate this, some communities observe Akheri Chahar Shamba by performing special prayers, reciting verses from the Quran, and distributing food to the poor. There are also local variations in how it is celebrated, with some people visiting shrines, decorating homes, or organizing gatherings to mark the occasion.

However, it’s worth noting that Akheri Chahar Shamba is not considered an official Islamic festival or holiday and is not mentioned in primary Islamic texts. Its observance is more cultural than religious, and it reflects the unique ways in which various communities blend religious devotion with local customs.

In Bangladesh, Akhari Chahar Somba is observed as an optional holiday. Under employment and holiday laws in Bangladesh, employees can select a limited number of days off from a list of optional holidays. While some may choose to take a holiday on this day, the majority of offices and businesses typically remain open.