Muharram marks one of the most important, and tragic, occasions in Islam. For Muslims it symbolizes the great divide between good and evil, the righteous and faithful versus those who would use the people and religion to their own benefit.

The Caliphs of Islam, based in Kufa (now Iraq), were the leaders of Islam, and Islamic societies at the time. The fourth Caliph was Ali, the son-in-law of the Prophet. The fifth Caliph was Muwayiah, who ruled until his death in 680 A.D. Prior to his death, he arranged for his son, Yazid, to succeed him. This turned the previous democratic process of electing the Caliph into a dynastic succession.

The people rose up against this change, and found their champion in Hussain bin Ali, the son of Ali and grandson of the Prophet. With 200 followers, Hussain proceeded to Kufa, for a showdown with Yazid. However, Yazid sent a 4,000-strong army to intercept Hussain, and battle ensued at Karbala, on the Euphrates. Faced by vastly superior force, Hussain had only two choices – to fight for the values of democracy and righteous, or to accept the forces of evil. In the ensuring battle, Yazid’s army showed no mercy, and slaughtered Hussain, two of his young sons and all his male followers. This great battle took place in the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar – Muharram.

The tragedy of Karbala resonates in Muslim societies and history. Muslims commemorate this event as the ultimate example of the perpetual conflict between good and evil, and the glory of sacrifice to uphold the cause of the right. Although marking a great tragedy, the day is also celebrated joyfully – marking this example of bravery and courage against evil.

Over the centuries, Bangladeshis have developed many customs and traditions for celebrating this occasion. Traditionally, rural people hold big fairs, known as ‘Mela’ and also arrange events like ‘lathi-khela’ (group fighting or dueling with sticks), ‘Morshia’ (recitation from the traditional folk-poetry about the tragedy in front of large audiences), etc. In the cities, particularly in Dhaka, there is an enormous procession from the old part of the city, with a ‘Tazia’ (a replica of the Tomb of Hussain) out in front. Some of the young and stout young men also beat themselves with sticks and chains, to express sympathy with the great atrocities done to Hussain. A great fair is also held in Azimpur area of Dhaka city which lasts for a few days. Devoted Muslims may fast for the day, give food to the poor, and join together in solemn observance of this occasion.