Muharram, the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar, holds great importance for Muslims around the world. It marks the beginning of the Islamic New Year and is one of the four sacred months in Islam. Muharram 2024 is especially significant because it includes Ashura 2024, a day of deep historical and religious importance.

In countries like India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, and other South Asian nations, the crescent moon is usually sighted a day later. Therefore, in these countries, the Islamic New Year 1446 will begin on July 8, 2024, which is the first day of Muharram 1446/2024. Ashura, the 10th day of Muharram, will be observed on July 17, 2024. These dates are based on the sighting of the crescent moon.

Ashura 2024 Date in India

Since the Islamic calendar follows the lunar cycle, the dates for Muharram vary each year on the Gregorian calendar. In Saudi Arabia, the crescent moon for Muharram was not sighted on the evening of Friday, July 5, 2024, which was the 29th day of Dhul Hijjah. As a result, the Saudi authorities announced that the 1st of Muharram 1446 would begin after evening prayers on Saturday, July 6, 2024. Thus, July 7, 2024, is the first day of Muharram in Saudi Arabia, marking the start of the Islamic New Year 1446.

In countries like India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, and other South Asian nations, the crescent moon is usually sighted a day later. Therefore, in these countries, the Islamic New Year 1446 will begin on July 8, 2024, which is the first day of Muharram 1446/2024. Ashura, the 10th day of Muharram, will be observed on July 17, 2024. These dates are based on the sighting of the crescent moon.

Significance of Ashura

Ashura, the 10th day of Muharram, commemorates several significant events, most notably the martyrdom of Imam Hussain, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, in the Battle of Karbala in 680 AD. For Shia Muslims, Ashura is a day of mourning, reflecting on the sacrifice of Imam Hussain and his followers. Sunni Muslims also observe Ashura by fasting and praying, showing gratitude to Allah.

History and Importance of Muharram
Muharram is a month of great significance for both Sunni and Shia Muslims. It remembers key events, especially the martyrdom of Imam Hussain in the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. This battle is a pivotal event in Islamic history, symbolizing the struggle for justice and true Islamic principles against the oppressive rule of Yazid I, the second Umayyad caliph.

Imam Hussain, along with his family and a small group of loyal followers, refused to pledge allegiance to Yazid I, believing his rule was unjust. They traveled to Kufa, Iraq, answering calls for support. However, upon reaching Karbala, they were confronted by a large Umayyad army. Despite being outnumbered, Imam Hussain and his followers remained steadfast in their commitment to justice and the true teachings of Islam.

On the 10th day of Muharram, known as Ashura, Imam Hussain and his followers fought bravely against the Umayyad forces. Surrounded and deprived of food and water for several days, they were eventually killed, with Imam Hussain being martyred.

How Muharram is Observed

Shia Muslims begin mourning from the first night of Muharram and continue for over two months. The first ten days are particularly significant. On the opening day, they wear black clothes to symbolize grief and offer prayers. On Ashura, processions take to the streets, with participants walking barefoot and chanting in remembrance of Imam Hussain.

Fasting and Prayers

Fasting on Ashura has historical roots even before Islam. Prophet Muhammad observed that Jews fasted on this day to commemorate Moses' victory over Pharaoh. He encouraged his followers to fast on Ashura, and this tradition continues among Sunni Muslims, who often fast on the 9th and 10th days of Muharram.

Muharram's Virtues

Muharram is a special time to seek Allah's favor and mercy. Recommended practices during this sacred month include:

Fasting: Fasting on the 9th and 10th, or the 10th and 11th of Muharram, is believed to expiate sins.
Reading the Qur’an: Engaging in Dhikr (remembrance of Allah) and Qur’an recitation.
Giving Charity: Starting the Islamic New Year with regular charity brings blessings.

Public Life During Muharram

Ashura is a gazetted holiday in India, leading to the closure of post offices, banks, and government offices. Islamic businesses and stores may also have reduced hours. Large processions and prayer meetings can disrupt local traffic, especially in Muslim-dominated areas.

Celebrating Muharram in India

Muharram is observed across India, with notable celebrations in states like Karnataka, Kerala, and Andhra Pradesh. These regions are known for their vibrant Muharram observances, making them ideal places to witness the true spirit of the festival.

Muharram 2024 and Ashura 2024 are times of reflection, mourning, and spiritual renewal for Muslims worldwide. Understanding their significance and participating in the observances can provide a deeper appreciation of this important Islamic tradition.