Bangladesh observes Holy Ashura with prayers, mourning

Bangladesh is observing Holy Ashura, the 10th day of Muharram in the Hijri calendar, today with religious devotion, mourning and special programmes across the country.

The day holds deep religious, historical and spiritual significance for Muslims and commemorates one of the most tragic events in Islamic history. While Ashura is associated with several important events in Islam, it is most widely observed in remembrance of the tragedy of Karbala.

On the 10th of Muharram in 61 Hijri (680 AD), Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA), the beloved grandson of Prophet Hazrat Muhammad (PBUH), was martyred alongside members of his family and close companions on the plain of Karbala, on the banks of the Euphrates River in present-day Iraq. They lost their lives while standing for truth, justice and the principles of Islam against the forces of Yazid. Their sacrifice is regarded as one of the defining chapters in Islamic history and continues to inspire Muslims around the world.

Marking the occasion, President Mohammed Shahabuddin and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman issued separate messages. They called on people to embrace the lessons of Holy Ashura and work towards building a peaceful, humane, just and prosperous Bangladesh.

Holy Ashura is being observed as a public holiday.

Bangladesh Betar, Bangladesh Television and private media outlets are broadcasting special programmes highlighting the significance of the day. Religious discussions, milad mahfils, recitations from the Holy Quran, prayers and special munajats are also being held across the country, including in Dhaka.

Members of the Shia community are observing the occasion with due religious solemnity by holding mourning gatherings, organising Tazia processions and arranging other religious programmes in different parts of the capital.

Law enforcement agencies have taken security measures to ensure the peaceful observance of all events.

Ahead of the occasion, the Islamic Foundation under the Ministry of Religious Affairs organised a discussion and prayer meeting titled "Importance and Significance of Ashura" on Thursday at the south veranda of Baitul Mukarram.