Muharram

Rajasthan has caught the frenzy of the tourists in different parts of the world. The variety of attractions in Rajasthan has actually earned it this status. Moreover, there are a number of fairs and festivals in Rajasthan that also attracts a large number of tourists. The best part of these festivals is that it reflects the secular spirit of the state. Rajasthan is a state that shows same enthusiasm for festivals of different religion. This actually helps the people of Rajasthan to live in harmony and peace. Muharram is one of the major festivals of Rajasthan. The Muslim Community of Rajasthan celebrates this festival with an earnest effort. The state boasts a great look during the festival.

About Muharrram

Muharram is grand festival for Muslims, especially for those who belong to the Shia sect. It is celebrated to pay respect to the Hazrat Imam Hussain. He is the grandson of Prophet Mohammad. The celebration is a remembrance of his martyrdom. This celebration has a rich history as well. According to Muslim religious beliefs, Hazarat Imam Hussain and his family were on a journey. During the journey, they were suddenly attacked by the forces of Yazid at Karbala in Iraq. The prime reason for this is Yazid was a Muslim ruler and was having a dispute with Hussain regarding the successor of Hazrat Ali. During that battle, though the followers of Hussain put up a brave fight but that was not enough to outdo the forces of Yazid. They were ultimately starved to death. However, their brave fight is still remembered. The celebration of Muharram is a remembrance of their valiant effort.

Muharram in Rajasthan

Muharram in Rajasthan is celebrated with a lot of enthusiasm. During this festival, a number of meetings are held in different parts of Rajasthan. The meetings mainly comprise of Muslim rulers narrating the Karabala incident. They also take this opportunity to laud the brave deeds of Hussain’s army. These meetings or gatherings are also known as Majalis. They continue for nine day staring from the first of the month of Muharram. The festival also involves mourning to pay respect to sad death of Hussain’s army. As a part in mourning, women dress themselves in black clothes without any sort of jewelry.

The tenth day of Muharram is known as Ashurah. On this day, you can see a number of processions coming out in various parts of Rajasthan. These processions are attended by a large number of people. They carry banners and models of Hussain. You can also catch a glimpse of bamboo replicas of martyr’s tomb. They are wonderfully decorated with mica and gold. People taking part in the processions inflict their own body. Hurting themselves with metal chains is also a part of the festival. This act is to reflect grief. During this act, they also chant Ya Hussain. The procession also consists of white horse. This white horse signifies the Dul Dul, Hussain’s empty horse after he had sacrificed his life.

On visiting Rajasthan during this festival, you will also come across a number of juice stalls that distributes juices for free during this span of ten days. There is no fixed time for Muharram. It may differ from year to year. However, if you can plan in advance then you will be able to visit Rajasthan during the festival.

Indian Holiday provides online information on the Muharram in Mount Abu, Rajasthan and other Fairs and Festivals in Rajasthan. It also offers online booking for a Tour to Rajasthan.