Muslim Board of Uzbekistan calls nationwide prayer for rain amid prolonged dry autumn

The initiative was announced by the Chair of the Muslim Board of Uzbekistan, Mufti Nuriddin Kholiknazar, who noted that the persistent lack of autumn rainfall and the importance of rain for livelihood and abundance had prompted the decision. According to the Muslim Board’s press service, “after Friday prayers on 28 November 2025, all mosques in Uzbekistan will perform a two-rak’ah istiska prayer, seeking rain from Allah through repentance, humility and supplication.”

The Board added that Islamic tradition contains numerous accounts of istiska prayers being offered during periods of drought. “Historical sources describe how the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) would face the qibla and make supplication with the community in times of water shortage, and then lead them in prayer. The virtues of the istiska prayer, in which believers ask Allah for water and rain, are detailed in hadith collections,” the statement said.

In addition, livestock will be slaughtered at regional and district central mosques and pilgrimage sites, with the meat distributed to families in need and other vulnerable groups.

The Muslim Board also stated that teachers and students of Islamic educational institutions will complete a full recitation of Imam Bukhari’s Sahih al-Bukhari before Friday prayers on 28 November. “It is noted in historical works that when Imam Bukhari’s Sahih was recited during times of drought, Allah, by His will, granted rainfall,” the report said.

The Board further recommended that imams currently on Umrah also perform istiska prayers with their groups in the Two Holy Mosques.