Muharram 2023

Muharram is the first month of the Islamic calendar and is significant in the Muslim community. It starts on the evening of July 18 and ends at sundown on August 17. During this time, Muslims commemorate the martyrdom of Prophet Muhammad's grandson, Imam Hussain, and his followers at the Battle of Karbala. Many people participate in mourning processions, listen to sermons, and offer prayers this month.

History Of Muharram

Muharram is a month of great significance in Islamic history, and its history is filled with tragedy and loss. The month marks the beginning of the Islamic year and is known as the "Sacred Month of Allah". 

However, the events during this month over 1400 years ago still hold immense importance for the Muslim community today. In 680 AD, Imam Hussain, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, protested against the Caliph Yazid and led a revolution against him. 

Unfortunately, Imam Hussain and his followers were outnumbered and brutally killed in the Battle of Karbala]. Today, Muslims worldwide observe the month of Muharram by mourning the death of Imam Hussain and his followers through processions, speeches, and other religious practices. It is a month of remembrance, reflection, and mourning for the Muslim community.

Significance of Muharram

Muharram is the first month of the Islamic calendar and holds a special significance in Islam. It is considered one of the four sacred months of the year when warfare is forbidden. The blessed month of Muharram is also called "Muharram ul Haram'' and is regarded as one of the holiest months in the Islamic calendar. It is considered the second most sacred month after Ramadan. 

The month is known for its fasting and mourning rituals and is marked by the tenth day, known as Ashura, an important day of remembrance in the Islamic faith.

Muharram is a month of reflection and introspection for Muslims, and they are encouraged to engage in acts of piety and good deeds during this time. Fasting is highly recommended during Muharram, and it is believed that spending the Day of Ashura by fasting will wash away a Muslim's past sins.

How is Muharram Celebrated?

Muharram is a significant festival celebrated by Muslims worldwide, including in India. The festival signifies the beginning of the Islamic New Year and is considered a pious and important festival by the community. Although Muharram is observed in different ways across various Muslim groups, some common ways of celebrating Muharram in India are fasting and attending prayer meetings in mosques or private homes.

In India, Muharram is also observed as a day of mourning by the Shia Muslim community. They remember the martyrdom of Imam Hussain, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, and his companions in the Battle of Karbala in 680 AD. The Shia Muslims participate in processions called "tazia" and "Alam" to commemorate the occasion. During the processions, they carry replicas of the tomb of Imam Hussain, along with colourful flags, and recite elegies in his memory.

The rituals and customs of Muharram are diverse and vary from region to region in India. In some parts of the country, people offer charity and distribute food and sweets to the poor and needy to show gratitude to God. In other parts of India, people refrain from playing music or holding weddings during Muharram as a sign of respect for the solemn occasion.

Where To Spend The Muharram Holiday 2023?

Muharram is one of the most significant and important festivals Islamic festivals. Karnataka, Kerala, and Andhra Pradesh celebrate Muharram with great solmenity. People meet their family and friends while indulging in festive specific food and sweets. However, the festivities are simple as this is a festival of mourning and fasting, with devotees choosing to fast for multple days. If you are a devotee or are planning to soak in the experience of Muharram 2023, visiting these three states can be ideal to relish the beauty and simplicity of this festival.