Shia Muslims performing matam, a chest-beating ritual, and self-flagellation during the Ashura procession in Kalaburagi on Friday.
| Photo Credit: ARUN KULKARNI
Members of the Shia Muslim community observed Ashura, the 10th day of the Islamic month of Muharram, in Kalaburagi on Friday with solemn religious rituals commemorating the martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was killed along with his companions in the Battle of Karbala in 680 AD.
Hundreds of devotees assembled at the Allah Khane Zahira Irani Masjid in the Tarfile locality and participated in a mourning procession.
As part of the traditional observance, mourners performed matham (ritual chest-beating) as an expression of grief and devotion. Some participants also performed self-flagellation in accordance with their religious tradition. The procession passed through major roads before culminating near the Railway Station.
Religious scholars addressed the gathering and spoke on the significance of Imam Hussain’s sacrifice, highlighting his steadfast commitment to justice, truth and righteousness in the face of oppression.
The Shia Muslims observed fasting and said special prayers during the first 10 days of Muharram. Ashura, the culmination of the mourning period, was marked by processions and other religious observances.
Meanwhile, members of the Sunni Muslim community also observed Muharram with prayers, fasting and processions in different parts of the city.
Devotees carried Taziyas – decorative replicas symbolising the mausoleum of Imam Hussain, which were taken through various localities before concluding at burial grounds as part of the traditional observance.
The police made elaborate security arrangements to ensure peaceful conduct of processions.
Published – June 26, 2026 09:07 pm IST
