Solemnity and mourning characterized the ‘Yaum-e-Ashura’ observance in Hyderabad as the historic ‘Bibi-ka-Alam’ procession proceeded peacefully in the old city amid tight security. The procession, involving thousands of mourners, started from Bibi Ka Alawa and ended at Chaderghat on the Musi River banks after passing through various parts of the old city.
The procession route included significant locations like Sheikh Faiz Kaman, Charminar, and Purani Haveli. The ‘Bibi ka Alam’ was carried on an elephant named ‘Sreedevi’ from Kerala, with self-flagellating mourners leading the way.
‘Yaum-e-Ashura’ commemorates the martyrdom of Prophet Mohammed’s grandson Imam Hussain and his followers at the battle of Karbala. The ‘alam,’ a gold-and-diamond-studded standard, is believed to hold a wooden plank associated with Bibi Fatima Zehra, daughter of Prophet Mohammed, and has been carried on an elephant for over 430 years.
Bloodshed rituals were observed during the procession, with Shia mourners self-flagellating and crying out ‘Ya Hussain.’ The police deployed extensive security measures, with around 2,000 personnel ensuring the event’s smooth conduct. Top officials and political leaders also participated in offering respects along the procession route.
