Ashura in Bangladesh

Ashura is a significant religious observance for Muslims worldwide, and that includes the Muslim-majority country of Bangladesh. Derived from the Arabic word 'Ashura,' which means 'ten,' the holiday is observed on the tenth day of Muharram, the first month in the Islamic lunar calendar. The occasion marks the day of the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, in the Battle of Karbala.

In Bangladesh, Ashura is publicly observed with much grandeur and is declared a national holiday. Bangladesh observes Ashura with solemnity. Muslims partake in mass processions through the streets, chanting and mourning the tragic death of Imam Hussein. The most significant Ashura processions in Bangladesh take place in the capital city of Dhaka, with the primary event taking place at Hussein Dalan, an important Shia religious institution.

Ashura in Bangladesh is more than a religious observance - it's also a special cultural event. An integral part of the Ashura observance in Bangladesh is the enactment of 'ta'zia' - dramatic presentations that depict the incident of Karbala. Many people also participate in self-flagellation (though it has been criticized and discouraged by some religious organizations). Despite the sorrow and mourning, Ashura is also seen as a day of redemption and Muslims fast to seek redemption for their sins.