(MENAFN- Kashmir Observer) Srinagar- As Muharram commenced Thursday evening, Shia-majority areas of Kashmir wore a solemn look with black flags and banners commemorating the anniversary of Karbala tragedy.

From Srinagar to Budgam and Baramulla, preparations are underway for processions and sermons. Youth have set up refreshment stalls and decorated Imam Bargahs, while authorities are coordinating logistics, traffic, and medical aid to ensure peaceful observance.

Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar, is one of the four sacred months in Islam and holds deep religious significance for Muslims across the globe. It also marks the beginning of a period of mourning for Shia Muslims, culminating in Ashura, the 10th day of Muharram, commemorating the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (AS), the beloved grandson of Prophet Muhammad (Pbuh), in the plains of Karbala.

Local youth and volunteers have swung into action, setting up Sabeels (refreshment stalls), cleaning and decorating Imam Bargahs, and coordinating logistics for religious processions that will be held over the first ten days of the month.

“Muharram is not just about grief. It teaches us courage and standing up for the truth,” said Kifiyat, a mourner from Srinagar's Bemina area. In Budgam, Tahir, another youth, echoed the sentiment, saying,“This month brings pain but also strength. Through Imam Hussain's sacrifice, we teach our children the value of resistance and righteousness.”

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Religious scholars are expected to deliver special sermons over the coming days, emphasizing themes of justice, unity, and sacrifice. Traditional mourning processions are likely to be held in Srinagar's Zadibal, Hassanabad, Shalimar, Lal Bazar, Dal interiors, Bemina and other Shia-populated areas across Kashmir.

Meanwhile, district administrations have been holding review meetings to ensure smooth observance. Officials said arrangements related to traffic diversions, medical services, and sanitation have been put in place, with close coordination between local authorities and religious bodies.

The days ahead are expected to witness large congregations, as the Valley's Shia community commemorates one of the most profound events in Islamic history.

Muharram Processions in Srinagar

Meanwhile Lt Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday said that Muharram processions in Srinagar will follow the same routes as they did last year. He made the announcement during a press conference held at the Raj Bhawan, convened to brief the media on preparations for the upcoming Amarnath Yatra.

“The routes followed for Muharram processions last year will remain unchanged this year,” LG Sinha said while responding to a query during a press conference here on Thursday.
LG administration lifted a 34‐year ban dating back to 1989 on the traditional 8th Muharram procession in Srinagar last year. On July 27, 2023 the authorities allowed the 8th Muharram procession along its traditional route in Srinagar-from Guru Bazar, through Lal Chowk, to Dalgate.
Meanwhile, the LG's remark on Muharram processions is likely to evoke positive responses from various religious bodies, particularly Shia organisations, who have been pushing for revival of all traditional routes.

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