Who doesn’t know about Muharram? Irrespective of case, creed and religion, all are aware of the history as well as importance of Muharram. It is a significant Islamic month that marks the beginning of the Islamic New Year. It is observed with great reverence by Muslims worldwide, commemorating the martyrdom of Imam Hussain, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, at the Battle of Karbala in 680 AD.

Now I’m staying at Hyderabad for some time and obviously I’ll not keep any stone unturned herein. While Muharram is celebrated in various regions of India and around the world, the city of Hyderabad holds a unique position in its observance and distinct traditions compared to other states and countries.

Muharram in Hyderabad: Uniting Communities Through Faith

In Hyderabad, the commemoration of Muharram (known as Peerla Panduga also) extends over ten days, with the most intense observances taking place on the 9^th and 10^th days, known as Ashura. The city comes alive with a blend of religious rituals, processions, and social activities that reflect the deep-rooted cultural heritage of the region.

Muharram serves as a powerful unifier, transcending cultural and religious boundaries. The city’s Muslim community, comprising Sunnis and Shias, comes together to commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussain, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, and his companions at the Battle of Karbala. Processions, known as ‘Juloos,’ are organized throughout the city, where mourners dressed in black participate in marches and recite elegies, showcasing their unwavering devotion to Imam Hussain.

Similarities with Other Countries: A Shared Spiritual Bond

The observance of Muharram in Hyderabad resonates with the traditions practiced in Iraq, Iran, Lebanon & Pakistan – the heartlands of Shia Islam. In these countries, the commemoration of Ashura, the 10th day of Muharram, holds significant religious importance. Similar to Hyderabad, devotees in Iraq and Iran participate in processions, often beating their chests and self-flagellating as a symbolic act of grief over the martyrdom of Imam Hussain. The core elements of mourning, processions, and religious gatherings are common among these countries. The spirit of mourning and remembrance binds these communities together, bridging the geographical divide.

But, Hyderabad is Different also from others.

Cultural Traditions:

Each country adds its unique cultural elements to the Muharram observance, making the experience different in terms of music, attire, and local customs.

Level of Participation:

While Muharram is significant in Hyderabad, the scale and intensity of celebrations in countries like Iran and Iraq can be even more massive, with millions of people participating in large-scale processions and rituals.

Ritual Variations:

Some countries may have specific rituals that are not commonly practiced in Hyderabad, such as the use of horses and camels in processions or different forms of self-flagellation.

Distinctiveness in Hyderabad’s Observance: Local Flavors and Customs

Despite shared sentiments, Hyderabad’s Muharram possesses unique elements that distinguish it from its Middle Eastern counterparts. The city’s rich blend of Persian, Mughal, and Telugu heritage has given rise to a fusion of traditions, adding a distinct flavor to the observance.

Pothuraju:

One of the most striking features of Muharram in Hyderabad is the presence of the traditional folk character ‘Pothuraju.’ Considered the guardian deity of the city, Pothuraju is believed to cleanse the surroundings of evil spirits during the mourning period. While the connection to the religious significance of Muharram may not be direct, the inclusion of Pothuraju showcases Hyderabad’s deep-rooted syncretism.

Bibi-ka-Alam:

Another unique aspect is the grand procession of the ‘Bibi-ka-Alam,’ a magnificent replica of the shrine of Hazrat Abbas, the half-brother of Imam Hussain. Carried through the city on an elephant-drawn chariot, this ritual highlights the historical significance of Muharram in Hyderabad and its devotion to the family of the Prophet.

This is the place from where the Bibi-ka-alam or Alam-e-Mubarak procession starts on a elephant on Ashoora day. It is believed to contain a piece of wood plank on which Bibi Fatima Zehra, daughter of Prophet Mohammed, was given the final ablution. The ‘alam’ was installed over 430 years ago during Qutub Shahi period. The ‘alam’ also contains six diamonds and other jewellery donated by Mir Osman Ali Khan, the seventh and last Nizam of Hyderabad. You can see a lot of red balls hanging outside in shops. These are called goad. Made of coconut and sugar inside, these are offered to Alams.

Sandal Procession:

During the observance, the ‘Sandal Procession’ is an integral part where a ‘taboot’ (decorated coffin-like structure) is paraded through the streets. The taboot represents the martyrdom of Imam Hussain and is accompanied by the sprinkling of sacred sandalwood water, an act symbolizing blessings and protection.

Langar:

Hyderabad’s Muharram is also marked by the distribution of ‘Tabarruks,’ which includes a special communal meal known as ‘Langar.’ The act of serving food to people regardless of their faith promotes the spirit of unity and harmony, underlining Hyderabad’s inclusive nature.

Difference from Other States in India:
While Muharram is observed with devotion throughout India, Hyderabad’s celebrations stand out due to the city’s distinct Shia Muslim population. The rituals, processions, and gatherings are more elaborate and deeply ingrained in the cultural fabric of Hyderabad compared to other states.

How Hyderabad Celebrates Muharram?

Majlis and Mourning Gatherings:
The heart of Muharram celebrations in Hyderabad lies in the Majlis, which are religious gatherings held at mosques and Imambarah (Shia community centers). People recite sermons and narrate the events of Karbala, evoking emotions of sorrow and reflection among the attendees.

Tazia and Alam Processions:
The Tazia and Alam processions are an essential part of Hyderabad’s Muharram observances. Tazias are miniature replicas of the mausoleum of Imam Hussain and are carried through the streets during processions. These processions are marked by participants dressed in black, beating their chests, and reciting elegies (Nauhas) to express grief.

Matam and Zakirs:
Matam refers to the act of self-flagellation carried out by some devotees during Muharram to display their devotion and empathy with Imam Hussain’s suffering. Zakirs are orators who recite eulogies and narrate the events of Karbala during the processions, further intensifying the atmosphere of mourning.

Conclusion:

Muharram in Hyderabad holds a special place, representing a harmonious blend of religious devotion and cultural heritage. The city’s unique traditions, particularly the Tazia and Alam processions, create a poignant and emotionally charged atmosphere. While other states in India and various countries also observe Muharram, Hyderabad’s celebration stands out for its distinctive rituals, local customs, and the spirit of communal unity. One unique aspect of Muharram in Hyderabad is the spirit of communal harmony. People from different faiths participate in the processions, showing respect and solidarity for the religious sentiments of their Muslim brethren.

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