Muharram 2023 Date in India and All You Need to Know: Muharram is a holy month for Muslims worldwide, and India is no exception. Muslims in India observe Muharram with religious fervour each year. The first month of the Islamic calendar is the holy month of Muharram. Muslims commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussain and his family in Karbala at this time.
Muharram is a time for spiritual reflection and remembering the martyrdom of Imam Hussain and his family in Karbala. As the Islamic calendar is founded on the lunar cycle, the dates of Muharram vary every year on the Gregorian calendar. Typically, Saudi Arabia, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates observe the crescent moon a day prior to India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Morocco, Indonesia, Singapore, and Malaysia.
When in India is Muharram?
The Islamic year 1445 begins in 2023, and Saudi Arabia will celebrate the commencement of the Islamic New Year on July 19. According to Nasser Ebrahim, the convenor of the Nakhoda Mosque in Kolkata, it will commence on Thursday, July 20, 2023 in India.
Background of Muharram
Muharram dates back to the seventh century, when Imam Hussain, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, was slain in the Battle of Karbala. The ceremony is known as Ashura and signifies a day of mourning for Muslims worldwide. Every year, Muslims observe this day by fasting, worshipping, reciting hymns, and taking part in processions.
Relevance of Muharram
Muharram is significant because of its association with Islamic history. Muharram is believed to be a reminder of the sacrifices made by Imam Hussain and his family for the cause of justice and truth. People also believe that Muharram holds a special position in Islamic history because the Prophet Muhammad announced his final pilgrimage to Mecca during this month.
The month of Muharram is a special time for Muslims in India because it brings together individuals of all faiths. During this time, numerous rituals are performed, such as ziyarat (visiting shrines), mourning processions, majalis (gatherings), and the distribution of food to the indigent. In addition to fostering a sense of unity and solidarity among Muslims across India, these activities promote mutual understanding between communities.
People don black during Muharram to express their grief over the martyrdom of Imam Hussain and his family at Karbala. Many individuals also self-flagellate with chains to demonstrate their devotion and allegiance to Imam Hussain’s cause. Although controversial, this practise has been observed for centuries in India.
