New Delhi: Muharram is the first month of the Islamic calendar which holds great significance as one of the four sacred months in Islam. With 354 days divided into 12 months, Muharram is considered the second most sacred month after Ramadan. The tenth day of Muharram is known as Ashura and it is a significant date that honors the martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad. This year, Ashura will commence on the evening of July 16, 2024 and will be observed on July 17, 2024, by Muslims worldwide.History of Muharram Muharram holds significant importance in Islamic history, particularly the martyrdom of Prophet Muhammads grandson, Imam Hussain, in the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. Both Sunni and Shia Muslims commemorate this event which symbolizes the struggle against oppression and injustice.During the reign of Yazid I, the second Umayyad caliph, Imam Hussain and his loyal companions refused to pledge allegiance, deeming Yazids rule unjust and contradictory to Islamic principles.They travelled to Kufa (present-day Iraq) responding to calls for support from its people. They met a massive Umayyad army in Karbala. Despite being vastly outnumbered, Imam Hussain remained dedicated to his commitment to justice and Islamic values. This ultimately sacrifices his life in the battle.Hussain and his loyal supporters clashed with the Umayyad army on the fateful day of Ashura, the 10th of Muharram. Despite being subjected to severe thirst and hunger for days, Hussains companions, including men, women and children fought valiantly until they were brutally slain. In the end, Hussain himself fell martyr in the battle, a tragic end to a heroic stand.Significance of AshuraAshura day holds immense significance in Islam, particularly for Shia Muslims, as it commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussain in Karbala. It is a symbol of resistance against oppression and injustice. As the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, Hussains courageous stand against the oppressive rule of Yazid serves as a powerful symbol of unwavering faith, moral fortitude, and the ultimate sacrifice, resonating deeply with the values of justice, freedom and goodness. This day also holds great importance for Sunni Muslims, as it marks the occasion when Moses and the Israelites were liberated from Pharaohs oppression, a story shared in both the Hebrew Bible and the Quran.Muharram 2024: Rituals and TraditionsMuharram is observed by diverse cultures and communities worldwide, with various practices and customs. Some common traditions include:Mourning and remembrance: People wear black, recite elegies, and reflect on the Karbala event, honoring Imam Hussains sacrifice.Majlis ceremonies: Gatherings where people chant and remember Imam Hussain.Fasting: While not obligatory, many fast on Ashura to empathize with Imam Hussains struggles and those of other Islamic prophets. Sunni Muslims fast on the 9th and 10th, while Shia Muslims fast on Ashura itself.Processions: In South Asia and the Middle East, processions commemorate Imam Hussains ultimate sacrifice.Charity and compassion: Muslims distribute food and money to those in need, emphasizing community and kindness during Muharram.
