Ashura today

Srinagar, July 16: Youm-e-Ashura, the martyrdom anniversary of Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS), will be observed across Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday with solemnity to pay homage to the martyrs of Karbala.

This significant day marks the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (AS), the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), in the historic Battle of Karbala on the 10th Muharram 61 AH corresponding to October 10, 680 CE.

Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar, began on July 7, 2024. The 10th day, known as the Day of Ashura, falls on Wednesday.

Officials have implemented extensive security measures to ensure the peaceful observance of the day.

‘Alam’ and ‘Zuljanah’ processions will take place across various districts of Kashmir and Ladakh, including notable locations like Baarji Harwan, Bemina, Gund Khawaja Qasim, Mirgund, Hanjiveera, Balhama, Panear, Tral, Devsar Kulgam, Sofipora Pahalgam, Chattergul, Achabal, Dangerpora, and Sonawari.

Meanwhile, sources said that the Ashura procession would not be allowed through Abi Guzar.

In Budgam district, processions will be taken out from Gazi Manzil to Imam Bargah Yousufabad, Magam, Iskinderpora Beerwah, and Sonpah.

In Ladakh, processions will be held in remote areas like Turtuk, Partapora, and Chushut.

The two major processions on the 8th and 10th days of Muharram had been banned since the late 1980s due to security concerns.

However, the first 10 days of Muharram, marking the start of the new Islamic year, remain deeply significant for the Shia community, commemorating the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (AS).

Despite the longstanding ban on large-scale processions in Kashmir to prevent potential law and order issues, the authorities last year permitted the 10th Muharram procession from Alipora Bota Kadal, Lal Bazaar to Zadibal.

Meanwhile, the Traffic Department issued an advisory to manage the procession routes.

On Wednesday, thousands of Shia mourners are expected to join the ‘Alam’ and ‘Zuljanah’ processions throughout J&K.

Traditionally, the Ashura procession used to start from Abi Guzar near Lal Chowk, pass through Basant Bagh, Habba Kadal, and Nalamar, and end at Zadibal in old Srinagar.

This procession was banned 35 years ago due to security concerns.

The government on Monday allowed the 8th Muharram procession which concluded peacefully.

In preparation for Wednesday’s processions, the Traffic Police has issued a detailed advisory and traffic diversions on the designated routes.

‘Azadars’ will participate in processions in Srinagar downtown, move through Mohalla Syed Afzal and Alamgari Bazaar, and culminate at Zadibal Imam Bargah, continuing the tradition of mourning and remembrance.