Tears, Prayers, Processions: Pakistan Honors Martyrs of Karbala

News Desk 

Karachi/Lahore/Rawalpindi: The nation is observing Youm-e-Ashur — the 10th of Muharram — today (Sunday) with solemnity and religious reverence to commemorate the supreme sacrifice of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA), the beloved grandson of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), and his companions in the historic Battle of Karbala.

The day symbolizes unwavering resilience in the face of tyranny and oppression and serves as a profound reminder of the timeless principles of truth, sacrifice, and justice upheld by Imam Hussain (RA) and his companions.

Nationwide Mourning Processions

Mourning processions, Majalis, and rituals are being carried out in cities and towns across Pakistan. Devotees dressed in black are participating in Zuljanah processions, chest-beating rituals, and recitations of elegies to honor the martyrs of Karbala.

In Karachi, the main procession began from Nishtar Park following Majalis held overnight on 9th Muharram. It is proceeding through its traditional route and will culminate at Bargah Hussainian Iranian in Kharadar, where Sham-e-Ghareeban will be observed.

Authorities have enforced strict security protocols in the city. A ban on pillion riding remains in effect, and major commercial hubs including Saddar, Empress Market, and Regal Chowk have been sealed. MA Jinnah Road is closed to all traffic to ensure a secure environment for mourners.

In Lahore, the central procession set off from Nisar Haveli at Mochi Gate and will conclude at Karbala Gaamay Shah by evening. Similar to Karachi, security measures and traffic diversions have been put in place to facilitate the procession and safeguard the participants.

In Rawalpindi, the primary Zuljanah procession commenced from Imambargah Colonel Maqbool Hussain and is scheduled to end at Qadeemi Imambargah following Maghrib prayers.

More than 5,500 police officers have been deployed across the city under the supervision of the Commissioner Rawalpindi Division, Engineer Aamir Khattak, to ensure peace and order.

Mobile Services Suspended in Sensitive Areas

As part of heightened security measures, mobile phone and internet services have been suspended in several sensitive areas across the country to prevent any untoward incident and maintain law and order.

Last week, the Ministry of Interior authorized the deployment of Pakistan Army troops and Civil Armed Forces (CAFs) nationwide to assist local law enforcement agencies in securing the Ashura processions and gatherings.

National Leadership Pays Tribute

On this solemn occasion, President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif issued messages paying homage to the legacy of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA).

President Zardari emphasized that the day of Ashura is a “bright and immortal chapter in Islamic history” that calls for reforming the self and building a society grounded in truth, justice, and public welfare. “Imam Hussain (RA) taught humanity a timeless lesson of sacrifice, steadfastness, and resistance against tyranny,” he stated.

He urged citizens to embrace the values of honesty, integrity, and compassion, and to pledge to transform Pakistan into a reflection of Imam Hussain’s message of freedom and justice.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif echoed similar sentiments, saying that the battle of Karbala is not confined to a historical context but continues to guide generations. “Imam Hussain’s message is universal. It teaches us that the path of truth may be difficult, but it ultimately leads to eternal success and the pleasure of Allah.”

He called upon the nation to stand by the oppressed, uphold justice, and promote harmony, tolerance, and unity.

As the sun sets, Sham-e-Ghareeban will be observed nationwide with candlelight vigils and further mourning gatherings, bringing the day’s commemorations to a close in an atmosphere of deep spiritual reflection and devotion.