In memory of Karbala, Karachi marches in mourning
VEILED IN DEVOTION: A sea of mourners moves along MA Jinnah Road during the Chehlum procession of Imam Hussain. Against the iconic backdrop of the Quaid’s mausoleum, the procession chants “Ya Hussain” that rise above the city. PHOTO: JALAL QURESHI/EXPRESS
Thousands of mourners observed the Chehlum (40th day) of Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS) and the martyrs of Karbala across Karachi on Tuesday, with the city's central mourning procession concluding peacefully amid extensive security arrangements.
The main congregation, organised by the Pak Muharram Association, was held at Nishtar Park, where Maulana Shehenshah Hussain Naqvi addressed mourners, highlighting the sacrifices of Imam Hussain (AS), the martyrs of Karbala, and the Ahl-e-Bait.
Following the majlis, the central procession departed from Nishtar Park and culminated at Imambargah Hussainian Iranian, Kharadar, passing through its traditional route via Sir Shah Nawaz Bhutto Road, Father James Road, Numaish, Saddar, MA Jinnah Road, and Bolton Market.
Separately, the Safinat-ul-Momineen Trust organised a Chehlum congregation at Masjid and Imambargah Shah Najaf on Martin Road. Its procession later joined the central procession after reaching Nishtar Park via Guru Mandir.
The Imamia Students Organisation (ISO) Pakistan Karachi Region arranged Zuhrain prayers for mourners near Masjid and Imambargah Ali Raza on MA Jinnah Road. The congregational prayers were led by Maulana Syed Nazir Abbas Taqvi.
Addressing participants, ISO Karachi President Syed Amin Shirazi said the sacrifice of Imam Hussain (AS) had become an enduring symbol of resistance against oppression. He described contemporary resistance movements as a continuation of the legacy of Karbala and urged followers to uphold the teachings and example of Imam Zain-ul-Abideen (AS) and Bibi Zainab (SA). During the procession, some participants staged demonstrations against the United States, Israel, and India, burning flags, while others demanded the release of Shia youths they alleged had been subjected to enforced disappearance.
Volunteers established water stalls, cooling spray points, medical camps, and service camps along the procession route to assist mourners in the prevailing heat. Mourning groups performed noha khwani and matam throughout the procession.
Authorities implemented stringent security measures for the event, with roads along the procession route sealed and a heavy deployment of police and other law enforcement personnel ensuring the peaceful conclusion of the Chehlum observances.