Muharram 2023: The festival holds great importance and meaning.
Shia Muslim Community Observes Muharram Holiday 2023 to Commemorate Hussain Ibn Ali’s Sacrifice
During the Muharram holiday, the Shia Muslim community comes together to mourn and commemorate the martyrdom of Hussain Ibn Ali, son of Ali and grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who perished in the Battle of Karbala in 680 AD. Karbala, located in Iraq, is a renowned pilgrimage destination associated with Hussain’s sacrifice.
The Day of Ashura, the 10th day of Muharram, holds particular significance as it marks the remembrance of Hussain’s brave stand against the army of Yazid I, which ultimately led to his demise. On this day, Shia Muslims remember the courageous sacrifice of Hussain and also recognize its historical link to the victory of Moses and his followers over the Egyptian Pharaoh.
Muharram is a period of mourning that extends for two months and eight days, with special emphasis on the first ten days of the festival. The mourning begins on the first night of Muharram, with the community wearing black clothes as a symbol of grief and offering prayers.
On the tenth day of Muharram, Shia Muslims participate in processions through the streets. As an act of mourning, they walk barefoot and sing sorrowful hymns, commemorating the events of Karbala and expressing their devotion to Hussain.
Public Life During Muharram Holiday 2023
Muharram holiday, particularly the last day (the tenth day), is a gazetted holiday in the country. This means that post offices, banks, and government offices remain closed. Islamic businesses and stores may also have reduced working hours or stay closed. The processions, marches, and prayer meetings during the festival may cause local disruptions to traffic, especially in Muslim-dominated areas.
The significance of Muharram extends nationwide, celebrated not only by Muslims but also by Hindus in various parts of the country. However, Karnataka, Kerala, and Andhra Pradesh are three Indian states renowned for their fervent celebrations of the festival. If you plan to experience the essence of this significant Islamic festival, consider visiting these states during the Muharram holiday in 2023.