Gahwara Ali Asghar & Imambara Ainul Hasan Zaidpur

Ashura Procession Originating from Imambara Mir Ainul Hasan.

Dr.Mazhar Naqvi

Imambara Mir Ainul Husain is the second oldest and well-known Imami shrine of Zaidpur- a prominent center of Azadari since 11^th century).Situated in Teergaran Mohalla, the Imambara was constructed in 1250 Hijri (1833-1834 AD) by Late Syed Zil Husain. He too once held the post of Nazim (Commissioner) during Nawabi period of Awadh. Like Badi Sarkar and Choti Sarkar , two other well- known shrines of Zaidpur with precious relics, Imambara Ainul Husain too is built with one large and four small shahnasheens. Its builder also did not retain services of any architect as was in the case of Badi and Choti Sarkar Imambargahs. The Imambara has halls, a platform with a large courtyard to accommodate devotees. Chandeliers from Belgium, Turkey and France are used to decorate Imambara during Muharram. Another proud possession of Imambara is a Zareeh(Replica of beautifully designed structure over the holy grave of Imam Husain at Karbala in Iraq)   and large wooden Mimber(pulpit) offered by a King of Awad.Like other famous imami shrines of Zaidpur, Imambara Ainul Husain to has rich collection of Alams and patkas made of previous metals.

Since its inception, Imambara has been hosting  procession of Gahvara/Jhula (cradle) in memory of Hazrat Ali Asghar, six-month old son of Imam Husain.The procession is taken out on 9th Muharram (Shabe Ashur) with Torhi Baja (mark to clear the path) Naqqara / Danka (Trumpet) on camel, Horse riders, Bairaq (a black flag), Mahi Maratibs (Symbols of Dynasty), Alam, Dhol-Tasha (A large drum), Ballam-Barchhi (Lances)), Mashak-Baja (A musical instrument), Asabardaar (Proclamation), Sher Bachche (Face of Lion), Zuljenah and  Umbrella with spectacular Zari(Embroidery). Matami Anjumans perform Zanjeerzani in front of Taboot (Coffin).

The  procession starts around on 2’o clock and passes  through Tazia road before reaching Ganje Shaheedan.’ Aag Ka Matam’(walking on Fire)also takes place in this Imambara on Chehlum of imam Hussain(20th Day of Islamic Safar month).Affairs of Imambara are managed by a registered trust. (References available on request.(Photo courtesy Google Images)