Muharram Festival

As the first month of the Islamic calendar, Muharram marks the beginning of a new Islamic year. This month is the second holiest divine month, right after Ramadan. Muharram is also one of the four sacred months which are mentioned in the Quran, with the seventh month of Rajab and not forgetting the eleventh and twelfth months of Dhu al-Qi' dah and Dhu al-Hijjah.

A brief history of Muharram

Going back fourteen centuries on the day of Ashura, Imma Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad and his little son were brutally murdered by a cruel ruler in the battle of Karbala. It was also troubling times for his family, as well. After the death of Imma Hussein, the remaining members of the family were imprisoned and treated harshly.

Even though Hussein died in the battle, his message of justice, equality and kindness were spread among the people who loved him. That is why Muslims recognize this day all over the world.

The adjective, Muharram means, forbidden, illicit, impermissible, and unlawful, and many more. In this case, warfare is forbidden as the festival proceeds.

How the day is observed

During the tenth day of the month, which is also known as Day of Ashura, Muslims mourn, and practice fasting.

The Shia Muslims mourn martyrdom and his family at the same time honoring martyrs by prayer and abstinence from fun. It is also believed that fasting during this festival atones the sins of the coming year. However, some people would break the fasting after Zawal to pay their respect.

Shia's kick off with the mourning from the first night of Muharram and the grief goes on for ten nights. In memory of Hussein and his family, who were deprived of water from the seventh to the tenth day. It is also in memory of Hussein and his 72 followers who were killed by an army of an unjust terrorist ruler known as Yazid.

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On this day, not all Muslims groups observe the same traditions. Some Muslims consider Muharram as the month of mourning or celebrating the battle of Karbala. Imam Hussain Ali, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, was believed to have been killed on this day. This is one reason why the entire Shia Association whips themselves with sharp objects on their both heads and backs, considering Muharram as a sad occasion. However, the Sunni community only celebrates the event by fasting. They don't take part in the rituals but observe the day honoring the prophet Moses.

Locally known as Mappilas, these Muslims constitute 25% of Kerala's populations. The Kerala Mappilas reside in the regions of Calicut and Malappuram district, and they mainly celebrate the event in memory of the tragic death of Imam Hussein Ali. Often the Muslims in Kerala are seen beating their chest while crying out Ya Hussein while in public. The Muslims engaging in the Tazias wear tiger masks on their bodies to appear like tigers.

In Hyderabad, 90% of the population celebrates Muharram to pay their respect. During Muharram, the Shia communities prepare a procession that begins from Dabeerpura Flyover, going all the way to Alawa-e-Sartouq Mubarak (Darushafa). The parade is accompanied by the arranging of short Majilis followed by the removal of Majilis black flags replacing them with red flags.

It is also customary to read the Ziarat Ashura, which are the book containing salutations to the martyrs of Karbala on this day. The prayer salutation is dedicated to the shrine of Hussain ibn Ali and the battle of Karbala.

In India, Muharram is considered a holiday (a day off for most workers in India). This means that government offices, banks, and post offices are closed, with other businesses operating on reduced hours. On this day, large meetings and parades fill the streets, so it would be a bad idea traveling as the event runs.

Muharram Timing

According to the Islamic calendar, Muharram month begins with the first crescent of a new moon. However, compared to the solar year, the Islamic lunar calendar is relatively shorter by 10 to 11 days.

The Significance

Muharram is of high significance to the Muslim culture, and it serves as a door to new beginnings and new opportunities in the coming year. During this festival, Muslims also pray for forgiveness of sins and, most importantly, commemorate Hussein ibn Ali.

Hussein's death commemoration promotes social cohesion, Islamic identity, and even tourism. To the Minangkabau people, located in the central regions West of Sumatra. Tabuk is a remembrance of Muharram. Generally, the Tabuik tradition is a result of two communities of Padang Pariamans. Luckily, their government also steps in, to promote the organization of the event.

The Muharram festival is undoubtedly an exciting event. A chance to explore the journey into an Islamic year and culture with the commemoration of imman Hussain ibn Ali.

People Also Ask About Muharram Festival in India

What is Muharram festival in India?

Muharram is an important religious festival observed by Muslims in India and around the world. It marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar year. The word "Muharram" is derived from the Arabic word "haram," which means "forbidden." It is considered a sacred month in Islam, during which fighting and warfare are traditionally prohibited.

Muharram is primarily known for its significance in Shia Islam, although Sunni Muslims also observe this month with reverence. The festival commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, and his companions at the Battle of Karbala in the year 680 AD.

Is Muharram a holiday in India?

Muharram is not a public holiday in India. While it is an important religious observance for Muslims, it is not recognized as a national holiday. However, in regions with a significant Shia Muslim population, such as certain parts of Jammu and Kashmir, Uttar Pradesh, and Maharashtra, local administrations may declare a holiday on the day of Ashura (the tenth day of Muharram) to facilitate peaceful observance of the religious rituals and processions associated with the festival.

What happens in Muharram in India?

Muharram in India is marked by various religious and cultural observances, primarily among the Shia Muslim community. While the specific customs and practices may vary across different regions and communities, here are some common events and activities that take place during Muharram in India:

• Mourning Processions: Muharram is known for its processions, known as "Majlis," which are held throughout the month. These processions involve Shia Muslims marching in groups, often carrying black banners or Taziyas (replicas of the shrine of Imam Hussein). Participants recite elegies and chants expressing grief and mourning for the martyrs of the Battle of Karbala.
• Matam and Chest Beating: During the processions and gatherings, some participants engage in "matam," a form of mourning that involves striking the chest with open palms or using chains or blades. This act symbolizes the grief and solidarity with the suffering of Imam Hussein.
• Recitation of Marsiya and Noha: Marsiya and Noha are forms of poetry and elegies that are recited to remember the tragedy of Karbala. These poetic compositions narrate the events of the Battle of Karbala, the bravery of Imam Hussein and his companions, and the sorrow of their martyrdom.
• Ta'ziyah (Street Plays): In certain regions of India, especially in Lucknow and Hyderabad, Shia Muslims perform street plays called "Ta'ziyah" during Muharram. These plays reenact the events of Karbala, portraying the struggles and sacrifices of Imam Hussein and his followers.
• Sabeel: Sabeel refers to the distribution of free food and drinks to the devotees and the general public during Muharram. This act of charity symbolizes Imam Hussein's spirit of selflessness and generosity.
• Ashura Processions: The climax of Muharram is on the tenth day, known as Ashura. It is a day of great significance and mourning. Large processions are held, and participants wear black attire to show their grief. The processions may include symbolic representations, such as the Alam (flag) or the Zuljinnah (a replica of Imam Hussein's horse).
• Communal Harmony: Muharram also serves as an occasion for promoting communal harmony and unity. In many places, people from different religious backgrounds participate in Muharram processions, extending their support and solidarity to the Shia Muslim community.

It's important to note that the practices and observances during Muharram can vary across different regions and communities in India. The main focus is to remember the sacrifice of Imam Hussein and his companions, reflect on the values of justice and righteousness, and express grief and solidarity with their suffering.