Muharram in Hyderabad: Of Tazias, Bibi Ka Alam, Sharbath & Dum ke roat

Hyderabad: Muharram is the first month of the Islamic calendar. It is a significant month for Muslims around the world.

This month holds special importance for Muslims in Hyderabad and the surrounding districts. The first 10 days of the month are of utmost importance for Muslims. The battle of Karbala was fought in the first 10 days of Muharram. Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, and his family members were martyred by the army of Yazid.

What is Muharram?

Muharram is the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar, and it holds immense religious significance for Muslims. It is a time of reflection, mourning, and remembrance, particularly for the Shia Muslim community, who commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussein at the battle of Karbala in 680 AD. The events at Karbala represent the struggle for justice and righteousness, and the martyrdom of Imam Hussein is a symbol of sacrifice and devotion to Islam's principles.

The commemorations begin on the first day of Muharram and continue for ten days. It culminates in a grand procession on the tenth day known as Ashura.

Majlis: Throughout the ten days of Muharram, the Shia Muslim community gathers in mosques and religious centers to hold gatherings known as majlis. In these gatherings, religious scholars and orators recite elegies and narrate the tragic events of Karbala. The aim is to create an atmosphere of mourning and spiritual reflection, evoking deep emotions of sorrow and empathy.

Matam and Noha Khwani: "Matam" refers to the act of mourning, and "Noha Khwani" is the recitation of elegies and poems that narrate the suffering and sacrifice of Imam Hussein and his companions. During Muharram, devotees engage in matam, often beating their chests and sometimes using swords or chains, symbolizing the pain and anguish of Imam Hussein's martyrdom.

Tazia Processions: One of the most striking aspects of the Muharram in Hyderabad and surrounding areas is the elaborately decorated replicas of the mausoleum of Imam Hussein, known as "Tazias." These Tazias are carried in processions throughout the city on the tenth day of Muharram. The processions are accompanied by drum beats and chants of "Ya Hussain," creating a solemn yet captivating atmosphere.

Muharram in the Old City of Hyderabad

Muharram is a deeply significant and emotional time in the Old City of Hyderabad, especially around Charminar, Darulshifa, and other neighborhoods. It is known as "Peerla Panduga" in the Telangana region, and it is a time of remembrance and mourning, not a festive occasion.

The commemoration of Muharram is deeply rooted in the culture and traditions of the Old City. The Ashoorkhanas are essential places of mourning and remembrance for Imam Hussain (AS). Each Ashoorkhana is associated with a particular community and has its unique rituals and customs.

The Muharram processions play a central role in the commemoration. People participate in these processions, carrying Taziyas, which are replicas or symbolic representations of the martyr's tomb. These Taziyas are beautifully decorated with black banners and flags as a symbol of mourning.

During the processions, participants recite Noha and Marsiya, which are elegies expressing sorrow and grief for the tragedy of Karbala. The recitations are accompanied by the beating of drums, creating a hauntingly emotional atmosphere. The processions wind through the narrow lanes and streets of the Old City, filling the area with mournful chants.

Throughout Muharram, the ambiance is somber, and it fosters a deep sense of unity and compassion among the people. It is a time when religious boundaries are transcended, and people from various communities come together to show their respect and solidarity.

The area around Charminar becomes the heart of Muharram activities. Devotees and participants gather around this iconic monument, and the surroundings are adorned with black flags and banners as a symbol of mourning.

While Muharram is a religious observance for the Muslim community, it is also a cultural event that showcases the rich heritage and history of Hyderabad. The Old City comes alive with a unique blend of customs and traditions passed through generations.

Heritage Walk in Hyderabad

A heritage walk was organized on Saturday to commemorate the month of Muharram in Hyderabad. The walk, organized by `The Deccan Archive’, took participants through the historic core of the city, visiting some of the most important places associated with Muharram.

Describing the heritage walk, Sibghat Khan from `The Deccan Archieve’ says, “We started the walk at Darulshifa and then had a tea break at Hussain e Cafe. The route was historically significant as it was located next to Alawasartauq, and we even had the opportunity to touch the relic at one point.”

He adds, “From there, we continued to Azah Khana and then to Badshahi Ashoorkhana. We walked till Kali Kamaan, near Charminar, where we found two ashoorkhanas, and we had the chance to visit both of them.”

The walk covered a distance of 3.5 km, and about 30 people participated in it.

“During the walk, we discussed the significant influence of Ashoorkhanas on shaping the city and their role in Muharram processions. Also, we spoke about the relics placed inside these buildings,” said Sibghat Khan.

“The sentiment requires etiquette. Women covered their heads. We follow that tradition to respect the religious sentiment of the community,” adds Anuradha Reddy of INTACH.

Built history

Anuradha Reddy, convenor, INTACH (Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage), Hyderabad chapter, says, “In Telangana districts, Muharram is commemorated as `Peerla Panduga’ and not celebrated, It's interesting that people travel back to their districts for this occasion as it holds more significance than in the city.”

Speaking about the historical significance, Anuradha Reddy says, “Muharram, the commemoration, is rooted in Iran and is primarily observed by the Shia community. However, it has become an integral part of our cultural heritage as well. The decorations during this time are diverse and impartial, featuring elements like Persian tiles, Sheesh Mahal (mirror work), silver-beaten metalwork, and Quadam Rasool,” adds Anuradha.

Places you can visit to observe Muharram

Charminar: The historic Charminar area in Hyderabad is a focal point for Muharram processions. The bustling streets come alive with mourners and devotees as they carry Tazias and march in procession, creating a visually striking and emotionally charged experience.

Bibi Ka Alawa: Located in the heart of Hyderabad, Bibi Ka Alawa is an important site for Muharram observances. The grand mosque hosts Majlis and Noha Khwani sessions, attracting large gatherings of faithful participants.

Hussain Sagar Lake: This iconic lake in Hyderabad witnesses a unique ritual during Muharram. Devotees carry Tazias on boats and float them on the lake's waters, signifying the journey of Imam Hussein and his followers.

“There is a significant place called Chinna Maoulali in Secunderabad, which is connected to Maoulali Hill and holds importance during Muharram,” says Anuradha Reddys.

Sharbath

Sharbath holds significance during Muharram as it symbolizes hospitality and togetherness among Muslim communities. This sweet and refreshing drink, made with ingredients like rose syrup and fruit flavors, is distributed during Muharram gatherings and processions, offering comfort and refreshment during this emotional time of remembering the sacrifice of Imam Hussain and his companions. It reflects a caring and compassionate spirit, bringing people together to show respect and solidarity while they commemorate this important event in Islamic history.

Dum ke roat

Dum ke roat is a traditional Hyderabadi cookie made with wheat flour, semolina, sugar, honey, clarified butter, and milk products, flavored with cardamom. It's crispy and about the size of a tea saucer. This special cookie is prepared during the month of Muharram in Hyderabad and is believed to have originated from the seventh Nizam, Mir Osman Ali Khan, who offered it for the well-being of his grandson.

Dum ke roat has become a popular treat during Muharram and it is served as part of the passion plays depicting Imam Hussain's martyrdom. It holds symbolic significance, representing purity and sacrifice, and showcases the strength of the Shia Muslim community.

One can find dum ke roat in various bakeries and sweet shops across Hyderabad, and it's also a popular gift during Muharram. Some places to buy it include Subhan Bakery, Pista House, Karachi Bakery, Rose Bakery, Niloufer, and Nimrah.