9th Muharram procession draws thousands

KARACHI:

The 9th of Muharram-ul-Haram was observed with profound religious devotion and reverence across the metropolis, as mourners paid tribute to the eternal sacrifices of the Holy Prophet's (PBUH) grandson, Imam Hussain (RA), and his companions in Karbala.

The central procession of 9th Muharram - commemorating Hazrat Abbas Alamdar - emerged from Nishtar Park under tight security arrangements and at Husainia Iraniyan Imambargah in Kharadar.

Prior to the procession, Allama Shahnshah Hussain Naqvi, known as Khatib-e-Pakistan, addressed the central mourning congregation at Nishtar Park. He shed light on the life and character of Imam Hussain (RA) and the martyrs of Karbala, vividly describing the trials and tribulations endured by the Imam, the Ahl-e-Bait, and their companions.

"The timeless sacrifice offered by the Prophet's grandson and the martyrs of Karbala for the preservation of faith will remain alive until the Day of Judgment," he declared.

Following the majlis, the central procession emerged from Nishtar Park under the leadership of Pak Haidri Scouts. It moved via Shah Nawaz Bhutto Road and reached MA Jinnah Road at Numaish Chowrangi.

At the Ali Raza Imambargah on MA Jinnah Road, mourners offered Zuhr and Asr prayers, arranged by the Imamia Students Organisation (ISO) Pakistan. The prayers were led by Maulana Sadiq Jafri, a leader of Majlis-e-Wahdat-ul-Muslimeen.

After prayers, the ISO staged a protest against the United States and Israel, setting their flags ablaze. A speaker addressed the congregation on the theme of "Hussainiyat - Our Path." During the prayer break, arrangements were made for towels, water sprays, and refreshment stalls (sabeels) for the mourners.