Ashura Starts

Ashura is a significant religious observance for the Muslim community, particularly amongst the Shia Muslims, as it commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussein. Iman Hussein was the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was killed during the Battle of Karbala in 680 AD. The day is marked by a series of rituals, which include mourning processions, self-flagellation, and passionate recitals of the tragic events that led to Imam Hussein's demise. For Sunni Muslims, Ashura also holds importance as it marks the day when Prophet Moses and his followers were saved from the Pharaoh by Allah, leading to the Pharaoh's drowning.

The observance of Ashura is not limited to Muslim-majority countries and extends to nations with considerable Muslim populations, such as the United Kingdom. Its history can be traced back to the early Muslim settlers who arrived in the UK centuries ago. In recent times, Ashura has gained increasing significance in the UK, as the Muslim population, including both Shia and Sunni communities, has grown considerably. The day serves as an opportunity for the British Muslim community to reflect on the values of social justice, perseverance, and piety exemplified by Imam Hussein and remember the significance of the day from the Islamic historical perspective.

In the United Kingdom, Ashura is observed through remembrance gatherings, where sermons are held to recount the events of Karbala and highlight its significance. Prayers and fasts are also conducted as a form of tribute and reverence. Processions take place in various cities, showcasing the interfaith solidarity as non-Muslims also take part in the commemoration. It is worth mentioning that Ashura falls on the tenth day of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar, so its date varies each year in the Gregorian calendar. Ashura begins on July 28th.