Asif Malik
Srinagar, June 24 : The traditional 8th Muharram procession was taken out here on Wednesday on its historic route after authorities granted permission, marking the continuation of a practice revived in 2023 following a ban of over three decades.
Thousands of Shia mourners participated in the procession, which commenced from Guru Bazar and proceeded to Dalgate via Budshah Kadal and M.A. Road . The procession commemorates the martyrdom of Hazrat Abbas (AS), the flag-bearer of Imam Hussain (AS) in the Battle of Karbala .
Speaking to Kashmir News Service (KNS), Shia cleric Agha Zahid said the procession is being celebrated in memory of Hazrat Abbas (AS), Alamdar-e-Karbala. “The flag that you see is similar to the flag of Islam on the battlefield of Karbala,” he said, adding that “whoever raises the flag today, wants it to be similar to the flag of Islam, the flag of humanity.”
The cleric said the procession demonstrates the message of freedom and humanity. “Imam Hussain (A.S.) is demonstrating his freedom, so that the world can hear the message of humanity,” he said.
The traditional route has a history dating back to before 1990 when the procession was halted due to circumstances and restrictions imposed during the militancy period . The procession resumed in 2023 and is being taken out on the same traditional route under the leadership of the Imam of the Hussaini Committee, Guru Bazaar, he said, adding that it culminates at Dal Gate.
The administration had granted permission for the procession subject to strict conditions, including a ban on provocative slogans, use of drones, and adherence to a specified time frame . (KNS)
