Imamis Busy in Bidding Farewell to Ayam-E-Aza

Dr.Mazhar Abbas

As end of Ayam-E-Aza (68- days dedicated to Mourning for Imam Hussain and his progeny) is only a few days away, Kanpur and adjoining areas are witnessing a surge in the programs aimed at paying glowing tributes to martyrs of Karbala. On November 25,2017, A tabut and alam julus will wend its way from Kunwarpur village to Karbala of Mir Kalbe Ali in district Fatehpur. The program is being organized by Syed Nusrat Hussain who was instrumental in the renovation of Karbala that had reduced to an earthen mound over the past two centuries. Anjumans from Kanpur will also participate in the program. In Kanpur, one of the oldest Shabbedaris of the city, will take place at Karbala Azam Ali Khan in Colonelganj. Hosted by Anjuman Zulfiqar Haideri every year since 1911,the famous Shabbedari will also take place on November 25,2017.The main attraction of Shabbedari will be Nauhakhwani by famous Anjuman-E-Hussaini from Hallaur.

The next day on November 26, 2017, Chup Tazia procession will be taken out from Imambara Jafri Begum in Colonelganj. In Kanpur, Chup Tazia procession is taken out on first Sunday of Rabi- Ul- Awwal. The procession passes through its traditional routes  and culminate at Karbala Azam Ali Khan. Traditionally, Mirza Muhammad Ashfaq Sahib has been addressing the majlis held on the occasion for the past few decades.

On 8^th Rabio Ul Awwal, the biggest procession will be taken out in Bilgram in Hardoi district. The main attraction will be recital of Salams and Nauhas by Hindu Nauhkhwan Chotey Lal. Bilgram is an old Imami settlement and has the credit of starting 72 Tabut procession in India.(Reference available on request.Photo Courtesy Google Images)