What is muharram?

Muharram is the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar and is considered one of the four sacred months in Islam. The 10th day of Muharram, known as Ashura, holds particular significance as it commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussain, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, in the Battle of Karbala.

During Muharram, Shia Muslims participate in mourning rituals such as processions, gatherings, and recitations of poetry to remember the sacrifices made by Imam Hussain and his companions. Some Shia Muslims also engage in self-flagellation as a form of mourning.

For Sunni Muslims, Muharram is also a month of reflection and remembrance, but they do not participate in the same rituals as Shia Muslims. Instead, Sunni Muslims may fast on the 9th and 10th days of Muharram to show solidarity with the events of Karbala.

Overall, Muharram is a time of mourning, reflection, and reaffirmation of faith for Muslims around the world.