Muharram

Shia Muslims doing tatbir for Imam Husayn

Muharram is the first month of the Islamic calendar. It is one of the four sacred months of the year in which fighting is not allowed. The month is accounted with many stories in Islam. The other months are Dhu al-Qi'dah, Dhu al-Hijjah and Rajab. Since the Islamic calendar is a lunar calendar, Muharram moves from year to year when compared with the Gregorian calendar.

Muharram is held to be the most sacred of all the months, except for Ramadan. Some Muslims fast during these days. The tenth day of Muharram is the Day of Ashura. To Shia Muslims it is part of the Mourning of Muharram. The mourning is for Husayn ibn Ali who was the grandson of Prophet Muhammad and their third Imam.

Azadari procession carried out by Shiite Muslims in Indian city of Hardoi on the Day of Ashura.

Many Sunni Muslims fast during this day. It is in the hadith that Musa (Moses) and his people had a victory over the Egyptian Pharaoh on the 10th day of Muharram. The Islamic prophet Muhammad asked Muslims to fast on this day, and also a day extra either before or after. Many Muslims cook something sweet like sweet rice and share with their family and circle of friends to eat when breaking their fast......

On muhurram a large number of people gather and decorate 'Tazia' as the Symbol of the battle People of Muslim communities in many parts of the world set-up ‘Langar’(A large pot filled with food) where water is served free to all for nine days On muhurram Sunni Muslims prepare ‘khichda’(Rice which includes all the grains and lentils available)