Prominent writers pen stirring works on Muharram

Literature reflects the significance of Karbala, lessons of Imam Hussain's legacy

LAHORE:

In memory of Imam Hussain (may Allah be pleased with him), all schools of thought organised gatherings and conferences to commemorate his great sacrifice.

People associated with showbiz also observe the month of Muharram with deep devotion and respect. Artists, directors, producers, and technicians remember the event of Karbala by organising niaaz and gatherings at their homes and showbiz activities are limited during this time.

Notably, Saira Naseem, Saima Akhtar, Mrs. Yasmin Shaukat Rizvi, Jarrar Rizvi, Durdana Rehman, Soumya Khan, Shahida Mini, Humira Chana, and Najiba BG have been continuously organizing majlis and concerts at their homes for several years.

The biggest majlis during Muharram is held at Melody Queen Shahida Mini's house, attracting a large number of people from various walks of life, besides artists.

A Majlis was also organized at the house of actress Afreen Pari in Allama Iqbal Town to honor the Karbala martyrs, with the virtues of the Ahlul Bayt being highlighted. Many showbiz personalities, including actress Megha, Nadia Ali, Mehek Noor, Afreen Khan, Zoya Chaudhry, Hira Butt, Iram Tahir, Kiran Noor, and Dr Ajmal, participated in the gathering, and their eyes were filled with tears when the incident of Karbala was described.

Furthermore, a niaz was organised at the residence of stage and film director Dr Ajmal Malik, where several prominent figures from the industry participated. A main procession was also taken out from Shah Noor Studio, led by owner Shahshah Hussain Rizvi and film director Jarrar Rizvi, with numerous artists joining.

Gatherings were also held at the houses of actress Khushboo, fashion designer BG, Durdana Rehman, and Shahida Mini, where the virtues of Ahl al-Bayt were highlighted.

The artists emphasised that the incident of Karbala teaches us to stand firm against oppression and for the supremacy of Islam.

They stressed the importance of removing mutual hatred and living in brotherhood during this holy month.

Actor Saif Ali Khan expressed that respecting the month of Muharram is a duty for every Muslim, while Melody Queen Shahida Mini emphasised the responsibility of the Muslim Ummah to thwart the enemies of humanity and spread the message of Hussainiyat in the present era. Actress Afreen Pari drew a parallel between Yazid's atrocities on Ahl al-Bayt and those of Genghis Khan and Halaku Khan.

The artists acknowledged that Imam Hussain's sacrifice for the glory of Islam raised the voice of truth and continues to inspire humanity.

They emphasised that following the footsteps of Imam Hussain can lead Muslims to regain their prominence in the world. The incident of Karbala symbolises standing up for truth against oppressors.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 2^nd, 2023.