Ashura being observed

Ashura, the 10th day of Muharram of the Hijri year 1448, will be observed on Friday across the country.

The day holds profound religious, historical and spiritual significance for the Muslim Ummah and is also marked by profound mourning.

Marking the occasion, president Mohammed Shahabuddin and prime minister Tarique Rahman issued separate messages.

In their messages, the president and the prime minister called upon all to embrace the teachings of Ashura and work towards building a peaceful, humane, just and prosperous Bangladesh.

On the day of Ashura, corresponding to 10 Muharram in 61 Hijri, one of the most tragic and heartrending events in the history took place on the parklands of Karbala on the banks of the Euphrates River in Iraq.

Although the day commemorates several significant events in Islamic history, the tragedy of Karbala has added Holy Ashura a special place of reverence.

The beloved grandson of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), Imam Hussain (RA), along with members of his family and close companions embraced martyrdom on 10 Muharram of 61 Hijri, in Karbala of Iraq while standing for truth and justice against the forces of Yazid.

Their sacrifice in the struggle to uphold the true ideals of Islam, human dignity and justice is regarded as an unforgettable chapter in history.

A public holiday has been declared on the occasion of Holy Ashura.

Bangladesh Betar, Bangladesh Television and private media outlets will broadcast special programmes highlighting the significance of the day.

Religious discussions, milad mahfils, recitations from the holy Quran, prayers and special munajats have been arranged across the country, including in the capital Dhaka.

The Shia community will observe the day with due religious solemnity and in a mournful atmosphere bringing out Tazia processions, mourning gatherings and other religious programmes in different parts of the capital.

Law enforcement agencies have taken necessary security measures to ensure the smooth observance of these programmes.

On the occasion, a discussion and prayer meeting was held on Thursday at the south veranda of Baitul Mukarram under the initiative of the Islamic Foundation.

Director general of the Islamic Foundation, senior district and sessions judge, A Salam Khan attended the programme as the chief guest.

Meanwhile, the Dhaka Metropolitan Police has taken extensive and stringent security measures to ensure the safety of Tazia processions.