Muharram: Muharram is the first month of the Islamic New Year and is one of the four most sacred months in Islam. This year, Islamic New Year begins on July 30.
Muharram 2024 Date and Time
In India, the Youm-e-Ashura 2024 date falls on August 9. Muslims across the Middle East, including UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, and other Arab states will be marked Ashura on August 8, 2024.
Muharram Significance
The word Muharram literally translates to forbidden. It is the month of reflection and mourning. It is believed that Prophet Mohammad referred to this month as the Sacred month of Allah and thus it becomes a significant month in the Islamic calendar.
The Battle of Karbala
The Battle of Karbala is one of the significant events held in the Muharram month. The battle was fought between a party led by the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, Imam Hussein, and an army sent by the Umayyad caliph Yazid I, during which Imam Hussein was martyred.
Muharram Rituals
Shitte Muslims across the world mourn the martyrdom of Imam Hussain, the son of Hazrat Ali and the grandson of Prophet Muhammad.
Shiite Muslims participate in processions on the Ashura day and some people engage in self-flagellation to recreate the suffering experienced by Imam Hussein. Meanwhile, Sunni Muslims observe fasting and offer prayers.