Deep reverence marks Youm-e-Ashura
Srinagar, July 17: Kashmir echoed with prayers and solemnity as Youm-e-Ashura was observed with deep reverence and religious fervour to honour the supreme sacrifice of Imam Husain (AS), the beloved grandson of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), and his 72 companions at Karbala.
This day, marked annually on the 10th of Muharram, is a reminder of the battle fought to uphold truth and justice.
Donning black attire and carrying black banners, mourners thronged the streets, paying homage to Imam Husain (AS) and his companions.
The city witnessed massive mourning processions, with Alam and Zuljanah processions taking centre stage in all districts of Kashmir.
Thousands of Azadars participated in the processions that commenced from Alipur, Bota Kadal and concluded at Imam Bargah Zadibal late Wednesday evening.
The entire route was filled with mourners waving Islamic flags and chanting praises for the martyrs of Karbala.
Zuljanah processions, symbolising the steed of Imam Husain (AS), were particularly significant on Ashura.
In contrast, Alam and Tazia processions have been a daily occurrence since the beginning of Muharram, which also marks the start of the Islamic New Year.
The Shia leader led the procession, shedding light on the life and martyrdom of Imam Husain (AS) and his steadfast companions.
The participation of various religious and political leaders highlighted the unity and respect for the historic sacrifice.
Despite the potential for unrest, the traditional Ashura procession, previously banned for 34 years due to security concerns, resumed last year without any reported incidents.
This procession traditionally used to start from Abi Guzar near Lal Chowk and traversed through Basant Bagh, Habba Kadal, and Nalamar, culminating in Zadibal in old Srinagar.
Security measures were heightened as a precaution, with additional forces deployed at sensitive locations across the city, including Lal Chowk, Jehangir Chowk, and Maisuma.
Authorities ensured that the processions proceeded smoothly, with no use of force reported.
The streets were dotted with volunteer camps offering hot and cold beverages to the mourners, emphasising the community's spirit of support and solidarity.
Sunni Muslims also held gatherings in local Masjids, where clerics discussed the teachings of Imam Husain (AS) and recounted the events of Karbala, fostering a sense of unity and reflection among the community.
In central Kashmir’s Budgam district, significant processions began from Gazi Manzil and moved towards Imam Bargah Yousufabad, Magam, Iskinderpora Beerwah, and Sonpah.
Notably, large processions also commenced from Babapora Magam, ending at Ahmadpora in Budgam.
The revival of the Muharram procession in Srinagar after more than three decades last year was a significant development.
Thousands of Shia mourners walked through the heart of the city on the 8th of Muharram last year, a decision welcomed by various quarters.
Ashura processions across the world honour the martyrdom of Imam Husain (AS), who was martyred in the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE.
Kashmir’s observance of this day, filled with solemnity, devotion, and unity, served as a powerful tribute to the enduring legacy of Imam Husain (AS) and his companions.
