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A Journey in Faith: Shia Amroha Azadari
Muharram, an Arabic term denoting the first month in the Islamic calendar, stands as one of the four sacred months in the Islamic lunar year. The word “Muharram” itself translates to “Forbidden,” derived from the root harām, signifying “sinful.” Regarded as the holiest of months after Ramadan, Muharram is marked not by joyous celebrations, but by a somber reflection. Muslims, clad in mourning attire, engage in gatherings to commemorate the sacrifices of Hussain (as) and his companions.
In contrast to festivities, the onset of the Islamic New Year is a time for deep introspection and mourning. Muharram is one of the four months during which warfare is prohibited in Islamic tradition. It holds profound significance as the month in which Imam Hussain (as) and his 72 companions sacrificed their lives for the principles of humanity and Islam. Imam Hussain’s stand against falsehood and oppression serves as a timeless lesson, illustrating the power of conviction and spirit to make a difference.
Muharram, therefore, is synonymous with the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (as), emphasizing the enduring impact of his sacrifice. The historical importance of this event is evident in the extensive attention it receives from early Muslim historians, whose surviving works underscore the profound influence of Imam Hussain’s martyrdom on the Muslim community.
Amroha, the epicenter of cultural and religious fervor, reverently observes the rituals of mourning with profound intensity. The Shia community in Amroha dedicates two months and eight days (Muharram, Muharram Safar, and Rabbi-ul-Aval) to commemorate this period of grief.
In an unwavering commitment to honoring the tragedy, the Shiahs of Amroha observe 40 days, starting from the first day of Muharram to Safar, as a solemn period of mourning. Women abstain from adornments, even removing their bangles, and celebrations like marriages are forbidden during this time. The Shia Muslims in Amroha observe celibacy for these 40 days, with particular emphasis on the first 10 days as a crucial period of mourning.
As the Muharram crescent graces the sky, Azadars (mourners) in Amroha lay out mourning carpets and raise black flags in Imambargahs, Imambaras, Ashour-Khanas, Aza-Khanas, Hussainiyaat, and Islamic centers. These adorned relics pay homage to the unparalleled sacrifices of Hazrat Imam Hussain (A.S) and his 72 companions in Karbala.
From the 3rd to the 8th of Muharram, the Shia Community embarks on a traditional mourning procession throughout the city. Colorfully decorated ‘Tazia’s and ‘Alam’ are carried, representing replicas of the Martyr’s Tomb. These structures, made of bamboo, tinsel, colored paper, and a wooden framework, symbolize the weeping and grieving associated with the tragic events of Karbala.
The procession includes a well-decorated horse, symbolizing the steed of Imam Hussain (A.S). Mourning participants, dressed in black, emulate the sufferings of Imam Husain’s beleaguered army, expressing grief through cries and physical acts of mourning. Drums beat rhythmically as they walk barefoot, some even walking on burning coals or striking their bodies with chains. Cries of “Hussain Hussain Hussain Hussain, Shaheedai Karbala Hussain” echo through the streets, embodying the anguish at the inability to prevent Imam Hussain’s torment.
On Ashura, the pivotal day, processions with Taziahs are carried out, accompanied by heart-rending cries of “Hussain, Hussain!” Men engage in ‘matam’ with chains, symbolizing their mourning. The faithful abstain from food and water throughout Ashura, mirroring the three days of thirst and hunger endured by the martyrs of Karbala. The day concludes with the ritual of ‘Majlis’ and the special evening ritual called ‘sham-e-ghareeba’, where people gather in darkness, illuminated only by candles, to recite “marsiya” – the tales of mourning.
Amroha, regardless of religion or sect, witnesses widespread support from the government, administration, police, and various departments, highlighting the secular character of India in its full glory. This collaborative effort underscores the unity and understanding that transcends religious and cultural boundaries in the spirit of commemorating a shared history.