Persecution of Imamis in Malaysia & World Silence

Dr.Mazhar Naqvi

Malaysia may be ‘My Asia’ for others but certainly not for the followers of Ahle-Bait.Since1996,Imamis are being persecuted and  prevented from practicing their faith tragically at the behest of Government. For them, Malaysia is not a progressive and developed nation but a country that is striving to eliminate Imamis like cruel and anti-Ahle-Bait Umayyad and Abbasid Caliphs. The government is going ahead with its agenda calmly as the world prefers to watch the whole issue with silence. The plight and persecution of Imamis never make headlines. The local media is also divided over the issue. While one section justifies the marginalization of Imamis, the other offers a balanced approach but refrains from attacking the government for depriving ‘Hussaini Community’ of its rights despite guaranteeing freedom of religion in the constitution.

It all began when the Fatwa committee of the National Council for Islamic Affairs on May 5,1996 determined that Muslims in Malaysia can only practice Islam based on Sunni beliefs. The committee also described Imamis as deviant and not within the purview of Islam. The fatwa has given a sort of license to authorities to persecute Imamis and prevent them from worshipping publicly, publicizing, broadcasting and distributing any books, leaflets, films and videos that relate to their school of thought. Further, the persecution of Imamis and restriction on propagation of their ideology is also in contravention of Article 18 of the UN Declaration of Human Rights (1948), ASEAN Human Rights Declaration (2012),Islamabad Declaration (2007), The Amman Message (2004), The International Bill of Human Rights and The Federal Constitution of Malaysia.

Yet since the implementation of Fatwa, Imamis have been placed under the Internal Security Act (ISA)  for spreading their teachings. Those released later were told to renounce their  faith  as a precondition. As the act provides detention without trial, it is being used against Imamis with impunity. From 2000 Ad onwards, Imamis have been arrested on the charge of  threatening national security. On similar ground, they were not allowed to commemorate the martyrdom of Prophet’s grandson on Yaum-e-Ashura in Salengor. Islamic Religious Department officers entered the Ali- al-Ridha Islamic Centre in Seri Gombak and detained 200 mourners in 2010. The following year, security forces accompanied Religious Department officers for mass arrest of Imamis for celebrating the birthday of Lady Fatima, the daughter of the Holy Prophet.

Local mosques across Malaysia are under instruction  to deliver anti-Imami sermons during  Friday prayers. In November 2013, Non Imami Muslims  were exhorted to  stop the spread of  Islam based on Imami principles through “jihad”(Holy struggle).Malaysian ministers and authorities  have been constantly advocating for an amendment to  the Malaysian Federal Constitution, with the addition of the word “Sunni” to be inserted after Islam as the official religion of Malaysia.

Most recently, the Islamic Development Department (Jakim) pointed out that Imami faith violated Islamic law on the false allegation that the sect does not believe in Friday prayers. Department has also raked up the issue of national security in banning Imami practices. Anti-Imami forces feel that Imamis were propagating their faith very aggressively in Malaysia after Iranian revolution of 1979 and hence, they emerged as a threat to national security and needs to be controlled through punitive measures.

Reference-

The post is based on the inputs   taken from a study carried out by Janab Muhammad Haji on Imamis of Malaysia )

Chehlum in 'Mehr-E-Fughaan' of Fikr Lakhnavi

Cover Page of Mehr-E-Fughaan

Dr.Mazhar Naqvi

Syed Wirasat Ali Rizvi ‘Fikr’ Lakhnavi also figures among the forgotten Shora-Ahle-Bait-E-Athar (Poets who write only for Prophet Muhammad and his progeny).Born in 1892 in Lucknow (India), he belonged to an eminent family of physicians. Fikr also followed the family tradition. He joined a Doctor as his assistant and began his own practice after gaining proficiency. In 1955 edition of his Bayaz(Note Book) titled ‘Mehr-E-Fughaan’ ,Fikr has said “  "My life was full of so many worries and hardships that 'Biradaram' Maulvi Syed Zafar Husain Sahab gave me the nickname Fikr' (worry). The poet has also lamented that he could not get mental peace and spare time that the poetry requires and talks about  the encouragement given to him by  Padam Bhushan Nawab Jafar Ali Khan Asar Lakhnavi. He owes the publication of his Bayaz to Asar Sahib and regrets that he could not produce much elegiac poetry as a result of his different constraints.

In 920, he got the opportunity to visit the holy shrines of Imam Hussain and other martyrs of Karbala following his posting in Basra(Iraq) as member of a medical team. After his return, he longed to return to Karbala and also wished to be buried there. But he died of cancer on September 10, 1959 and his mortal remains rest in Talkatora ki Karbala in Lucknow. ’Mehr-E-Fughaan’ contains elegiac poetry from Chand Raat(Sighting of Muharram Moon) to the martyrdom of Imam Hasan Askari .His language is simple but full of pathos. An idea about his poetry can be formed from his composition on Chehlum:

“Jahaan Mein Aaj ibne Saqiye Kausar ka Chehlum Hai

Qateel'e Raah' E HAQ, Sardar-E- Bhar Bar KA Chehlum Hai

Rahi Jalti Zameen Par Laash Jis Mazloom KI Uryan

Usi Shaahe doAaalam, Kushtaey Khanjar ka Chehlum Hai

Jo Saqqaey Sakina Aur Alambardare Lashkar Tha

UsiSI Dilbande Haider , Ghaazio Safdar Ka Chehlum Hai

Qalam Shaaney Huey Darya Pa Jisko, Roaze Aashoora

Karo Matam Ke Aaj Uss Saaniye Jafar Ka Chehlum Hai

Sinaan Seene Pe Kha Ke, Jis Ne Apni Jaan Di Ran Mein

Usi Noor E Nigaahe Shaahe Deen, Akbar Ka Chehlum Hai

Jawaani Roegi Jis Par Qayamat Tak Zamaane Mein

Usi  Karyal  Jawaan Humshakle Paighambar  Ka Chehlum Hai

Na Jo Pushte Paras Par, Kamsini,Se Baith Sakta Tha

Zamaane Mein Usi Lakhte Dile Shabbar Ka Chehlum Hai

Shujaat' Aur Ghairat, Jis Ke Sin Par Fakhr Kahti Thi

Usi Naashado Kamsin, Qasim'E Murtaza Ka Chehlum Hai

Barhaaya Doodh Jiska Hurmula Ne, Apne Paikan Se

Azeezon Aaj Uss Naadaan, Ali Asghar Ka Chehlum Hai

Hua Tha Qatl Jo  Nusrat-E- Shaahe Do  Aalam Mein

Uraoo Khaak Aaj Un Ghaazio Safdar Ka Chehlum Hai

Tujhe Aey Fikr Jiski Qabr Par Jaane Ki Hasrat Hai

Usi Mazloom, Tashna Lab, Shahe Be Sar Ka Chehlum Hai “

The closing couplet indicates his desire to be at the shrine of Imam Hussain. The credit for writing his elegiac poetry in English script goes to the creator of a website on Fikr or else his poetry too would have become untraceable.(Reference available on request.Photo Courtesy google Image)

Liquor Factory on Wakf-E-Hussain Land ?

Vijay Mallya -Photo Courtesy Google Images


Dr.Mazhar Naqvi

Imami leaders and scholars need to shun their personal differences to uproot a liquor factory being run on a Wakf land by Vijay Mallya. Shia (Wakf) Board had served a notice to Mallya in July 2015 and asked him to appear before it on August 10 with relevant documents to clarify his position over the issue. In the notice, the board had accused Mallya of purchasing nearly 10 Bighas of Wakf land for his United Spirits Limited and erecting a liquor factory on it near Abdullapur village on the outskirts of Meerut.  

Board Chairman Syed Wasim Rizvi had then revealed to media that the land in question was registered as Waqf Syed Mohammad and notice to Mallya  was sent after Hussain Ahmed, the Mutawalli (caretaker) of the Wakf in a letter dated July 2, 2015, informed the Board about “Illegal grabbing of the  property and running of a liquor factory on it “.The Chairman had also declared that board will take ex-parte decision if Mallya failed to show up. Since then, Mallya had neither appeared before the Board nor has his factory stopped producing liquor on land belonging to a Wakf (Trust) created with the noble objective of conducting Marasim-e-Azadari in memory of Karbala martyrs.

According to Wakf records, a great devotee of Imam Hussain Syed Muhammad had registered 10 Bighas of land as Wakf on April 26, 1918 for the purpose of Azadari and charity. His family later leased the land to one Lala Hansraj in 1937 for 50 years for setting up a central distillery and chemical factory. Later Hansraj transferred to United Spirits. Even though the said lease expired in 1987, strangely no effort was made to reclaim it from the possession of United Spirits. The Board exhibited seriousness towards the continuing running of liquor factory on Wakf land after Rizvi got reelected as Chairman of the Board. He ordered a probe after receiving complaint and verification of records substantiated the allegations against Mallya. After serving notice, he had claimed “We have conducted our inquiry and verified the revenue records. It is a Wakf property and we will recover it,”. But the way things are moving, the liberation of the land appears to be difficult. Imami community also seems to be somewhat indifferent to the issue. Their religious leaders have also not raised the issue from any platform. The Board Chairman also doe not enjoy favor of a section of powerful Imami Ulemas. Under such circumstances, how could liquor factory be uprooted from Wakf land is anyone’s guess.

Vijay Mallya is a powerful and influential person. He can press a battery of lawyers into service to prevent the district administration from taking possession of the land. Hence, Imamis need to express solidarity with the cause of the Board.

  They should remember that Wakf lands belong to Imam and hence, pious in nature. The existence of liquor factory on Wakf land is not only anti-Islamic but also disgraceful for a community that considers itself as the carrier of Hussaini Mission. Wakf Board is correct in its approach and needs to be supported by all Imamis in its endeavor to liberate Wakf land from the ‘Liquor Baron’. (Based on the Inputs from The Indian Express, Dainik Jagran and The Times of India.) 

Fakir Majnu Shah's Kothri in Makanpur-India

Kothri(Room) of Martyr Fakir Majnu Shah in Makanpur 

Dr.Mazhar Naqvi 

The 'Kothri' (Room) in the above photograph is of great historic significance, for it was here the first freedom fighter of India Baba Majnu Shah had spent his last days.The 'Kothri' forms part of the residential complex of a reputed landlord of Makanpur Mir Syed Hasan. Its roof  had collapsed in 2013 but Saleha Begum,daughter -in-law of Mir Sahib got it repaired.It is looked after by the youngest daughter of  the Zamindar Tajdar Jahan Begum who stays in Makanpur that is famous as the headquarters of Madariya Sufi Order.The shrine of order's founder Hazrat Badi Uddin Zinda Shah Madar is one of the most beautiful and sprawling structures.   

Majnu Shah was also a fakir of madariya order.he was born in Mewat and his original name of Abu Talib.He was also a great devotee of Ahle-Bait like all Madariya fakirs or Malangs,When he became leader of the order in Bengal and Bihar, Majnu Shah initiated an aggressive campaign against the British when they tried to put certain restrictions on the practices being followed by Fakirs and Sanyasis.The victory at the Battle of Plassy in 1757 had given confidence to East India Company to interfere in the religious rituals of  wandering Fakirs and Sanyasis.But a surprise was in store for them when under the dynamic leadership of  Majnu Shah Fakirs and Sanyasis offered stiff resistance in Bengal,Bihar and Assam.They attacked British settlements,looted government treasury and punished pro-British landlords for over two decades.

In January,1789,Majnu Shah received a bullet injury in a battle.He managed to ditch his pursuers and reached Makanpur where he reportedly received protection from the ancestors of Mir Syed Hasan and spent his last days in the small Kothri outside the main residence of the Zamindar.The British never got a wind about his whereabouts and came to know about his death much later. Family of Mir Syed Hasan put Kothri for any use as a mark of respect to the martyr Malang and ensured its upkeep.Over three decades ago, the family started keeping the structure and coverings of a'Turbatwala  Tazia' and other relics associated with observance of Muharram ceremonies.They did so perhaps at the behest of a Malang Changga who used to prepare Tazia after suddenly appearing on any day of first ten days of Muharram.

It is ironical that Indians are not much aware about Baba Majnu Shah.At government level also, there has been no effort to erect any memorial for Majnu Shah.representations made by Madariya Sufi Foundation have also failed to evoke any response.Even State governments of Bengal and Bihar have also done nothing despite being martyr's land of action.Bangladesh government has however done a lot to preserve his memory.he is considered as a national Hero and prestigious government projects are named after him.A movie has also been produced on him.But he remains unsung in India and have been overshadowed by those who fought against the British much later.(References available on request.Photo Blogger's Collection)      

Muharram in Prithimpassa- Bangladesh

Prithimpassa(Pritim Pasha) Estate's Elephants in Tazia Procession in 1956

Dr.Mazhar Naqvi

Preservation of Azadari in a hostile environment is not easy. It requires courage and commitment of the highest order. Prithimpassa( Pritim Pasha) Nawab family of Bangladesh is worth quoting in this context. It has braved aftermath of partition, emergence of religious intolerance and political turmoil to keep intact its glorious tradition of observing Muharram with royal touch. Imamis rush to Pritim Pasha Nawab Bari in large number from neighboring places to take part in ’Ashura’. Mourners not only take out Tazias but also ‘Zuljana’ (Horse of Imam Hussain) with great solemnity. They also resort to heavy chest beating and self-flagellation amidst the recitation of ‘Nauhas’ (Lamentation).

Imambara at Pritim Pasha

Muharram used to be observed with great fanfare and religious fervor during Nawabi and colonial Bengal. Murshidabad, Dhaka, Kolkata, Jessore and Sylhet were famous for Muharram rituals. People of different faiths participated in Muharram to pay respect to the martyr of humanity Hazrat Imam Hussain. Nawab Ali Vardi Khan invited scholars from Iran to create awareness about Karbala Revolution during his regime. The imposing and beautiful structures of Imambaras at Murshidabad, Dhaka and Hooghly are indicators of the scale of devotion and grandeur that accompanied Muharram in Nawabi Bengal. The advent of East India Company reduced much of Muharram sheen as the British feared the mass participation of people as a threat to their newly established empire. Company officials used divisive tactics to discourage participation of non-Muslims in Muharram. But they failed miserably in their bid as people continued to be part of Muharram observance with same reverence.

Tazia Procession of Pritim Pasha 

The British could deprive Nawabs of their power and reduce their wealth but could not prevent them from carrying on their Muharram legacy. The situation remained so till 1947.There was no effect on Muharram rituals even in East Pakistan. When Bangladesh took birth as independent nation in 1971, observance of Muharram remained somewhat all people affair. But things changed when the influence of Awami League waned and religious intolerance erupted its ugly head. Bangladeshis who went to Arabia to earn Petro-dollars returned home with the philosophy of Wahabis. From a secular and developing country, Bangladesh also fell prey to fanatics. Anti-Ahle-bait forces started preaching against the observance of Muharram. Except Hussaini Dalan in Dhaka, prominent Imambaras in other cities of Bangladesh became victim of neglect and vagary of weather. The attack on Muharram procession in Dhaka in October 2015 also revealed the hostile environment towards Azadari in Bangladesh.

Mosque Adjacent to Imambara 

Against such a backdrop, the observance of   Muharram at Pritim Pasha Nawab Bari is miraculous. The erstwhile feudal family of Pritim Pasha, a small village near Sylhet has not let anything to emerge as a barrier to observance of Muharram ceremonies. The family descended from the Royal House of Bengal and developed Pritim Pasha Nawab Bari not only as a beautiful residential complex but also introduced Muharram rituals to develop it as a prominent center of Azadari. The family also built an Imambara and an impressive mosque adjacent to it. Both structures survive in good shape till today and are visited by tourists. Pritim Pasha Family claims Sakhi Salamat as its founder who had arrived from Persia in 1499. His son Ismail Khan was appointed as governor of Orissa by Suleman Shah with the title of Khanja Khan. (Reference :Based on inputs from 'Prithimpassa Nawab Family' by Ali Hamid Khan , third son of Late Nawab Ali Sarwar Khan.Photos Courtesy- Collection Ali Hamid Khan) 

Imam Hussain & Karbala in Swahili Epics

A Majlis-e-Aza Being Addressed in Swahili Region 

Dr.Mazhar Naqvi

Sublime sacrifice of Hazrat Imam Hussain also features in the language of coastal Swahili community in the form of epics. The poet who produced most noteworthy epic about martyrdom of Imam Hussain was Hemidi bin Abdallah Al Buhry. His family had settled in Tanzania in 1820 and its members are still known for their scholarly and saintly lives. The credit for highlighting Karbala narratives in Swahili language goes to Dr.Jan Knappert. His article titled “Al-Husain Ibn Ali in the Epic Tradition of the Swahili” was published by Muhammadi Trust-UK in ‘Al-Serat’(1975-83).Dr. Jan has also attributed some epics to Hemidi’s grandfather Said or Saeed in his work.

The 21st century azadar world is not much aware about contribution of Swahili scholars to literature on Karbala. They don’t know about Hemidi or his grandfather or for that matter even about Swahilis as a community. Swahili is an Arabic word that means coasts. The community is called Swahili as its members mostly mainly reside on the coastal area encompassing Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Mozambique, adjacent islands of Zanzibar, Comoros and some parts of Congo and Malawi. They speak Swahili-a language belonging to Bantu branch of the Niger- Congo family. From numerical point of view, Swahilis can only be considered as a small ethnic group but their literature has acknowledged the significance of Karbala like Imamis settled in large number at other countries.

The quotes taken by Dr.Jan from the epic give an idea how in-depth was the knowledge of Swahili scholars about circumstances leading to the tragedy of Karbala and how immoral were the authorities of ‘Caliph’ Yazid. The poet, for example, describes the lax morals of Ibn Ziyad, the Governor of Kufa, in typical but compact and expressive Swahili style in these words:                 

 "Mwenye mke si mkewe mwenye mwana si mwanawe ni kama kuku na mwewe."(Swahili)

Translation :
“He that has a wife- not his wife, he that has a daughter- not his daughter -it is like the chicken and the kite”..( The poet means that anyone in the city who has a beautiful wife and daughter is in danger of seeing her raped by the tyrant, who will behave just as the kite behaves with the chicken. The kite is a common image in Swahili for the adulterer, the rapist; the chicken is the metaphor for a virtuous woman, full of fear of being attacked.)

The epic also deals with the situation when Muslim b. Aqeel  was deserted by the people of Kufa:

"Akatizama yamini asimuone awini

akiola shimalini asione nusurani. "

(When he looked South he saw no helper; when he looked North he saw no rescue).

Similarly, Imam Hussain’s departure for Maqtal(Battle-field ) has also been narrated in a heart-melting  way:

"Kamkalia Farasi Kinga umeme wa Kusi,

na wingu kubwa jeusi , lenye kiza na baridi. "

(“He sat on his horse, like the lightning that accompanies the South wind with a big black cloud, dark and cool”) .

"Akasimama Huseni Kawaaga nisiwani

kwa herini, kwa herini, nenda zangu sitarudi. "

(Husein stopped and said goodbye to the women

“Adieu, adieu, I go and shall not return)

How the martyrdom of Imam saddened the world has been portrayed in the epic in a very eloquent manner  :   "Wakalia na majini na nyama wote yakini

wa bara na baharini hata ndege na asadi. "

(Even the jinn cried and all the animals indeed,

of the land and (the fish) of the sea, even the birds and the lions).

(The article is primarily based on the work of Dr.Jan  Knappert (1927- 2005) was a well-known expert on Swahili language .It has been posted with the objective to create awareness about Karbala narratives in Swahili language and its scholars who produced epics on Imam Hussain. References can be made available on request. Photo Courtesy Google Image)

Sakina Binte Hussain and Her Martyrdom

Holy  Shrine of Bibi Sakina at Damascus. 
Dr.Mazhar Naqvi

Azadar world is mourning the martyrdom of Bibi Sakina these days. It is believed that she attained martyrdom in the dungeon of Damascus on a day between 3^rd and 13^th Safar (Second Islamic Month).In Indian sub-continent the martyrdom of the youngest daughter of Imam Hussain is mostly recalled on 10^th or 13^th Safar. Glowing tributes are paid to four year old ‘Hashmite Princes’ through Tabut Procession and Majalis-e-Aza.Wail and lamentations mark such occasions as her persecution and hardships in captivity are recalled. Despite young age, her personality shines like a star among the victims of Karbala. Her life symbolizes that age has nothing to do with maturity. Even lively, happy and smiling children can behave maturely in most trying circumstances provided they grow under the guidance and influence of Hussaini environment.     

Every azadar knows how Imam Hussain had prayed for a daughter at night prayers. He longed for a daughter who could offer him peace. Allah blessed him with a daughter and he named her Sakina- a derivative of ‘Sakoon’ that means peace. Imam loved her much and was often heard saying “A house without Sakina won’t be worth living “.She always had a sweet and cheerful smile and everyone loved her friendly and generous nature. But Bibi Sakina was different from other children of her age in many ways. She enjoyed reading the Holy Quran and never missed her prayers. She ensured that her head and face were duly covered when in public.She used to sleep on the chest of her father and Imam Hussain used to tell her stories of the Prophets and of the battles fought by her grandfather Imam Ali. It was this training that made her well-acquainted with the advent and principles of Islam and  how to remain steadfast in adversity and oppression.

Bibi Sakina also had an emotional bond for her uncle, Hazrat Abbas-the standard bearer of Imam Hussain.He too loved her more than his own children. If she ever requested for anything, Hazrat Abbas  would not rest until he fulfilled her request. On 10th Muharram, when the children in Hussaini camp  cried ‘ Al-Atash Al-Atash’ (Oh Thirst Oh Thirst),it was Bibi Sakina who urged  her uncle with the an empty Mashk (Skinned Water Bag) to fetch some water for them. Abbas with the permission of Imam went to battle-field, Captured Euphrates, filled the bag with water but could not fulfill the desire of her niece as enemies martyred him after severing his both hands. Yet Hazrat Abbas did not allow Alam(standard) and Mashk to separate from each other      

After Ashura, Bibi Sakina faced persecution in prison. The separation from father, looting of camps on Sham-e-Ghariban, snatching of her ear-rings and slaps of Shimr(LA) snatched her smile forever. Knowing that her tears perturb her mother Janab-e-Rabab, she used to weep quietly in isolation. Whenever  she saw birds returning to their nests, she always questioned “ Will I ever be able to go back home? Janab Noor Ali S Merchant in his poem ‘Sorrows and Sufferings’ has narrated the tragic circumstances leading to her martyrdom:

’’Sakina, woke with a shriek, in the dead of the night

She had seen her father's heavenly soothing light

"O' Sakina, you have suffered enough, come with me

the days of your sufferings are over; O' where is he?"

It was just a dream, what a disappointment!

It was not a reality, to her bewilderment

Her uncontrollable lamentations, gathered a crowd

The ladies also lost control and wailed aloud.

Hearing the wails, Yazid sent slaves to inquire

Pacing up and down, he had not yet retired

On knowing the cause, his crooked mind strived

A devilish scheme, he soon mischievously contrived.

Yazid's men entered with a covered tray,

"I do not want food, please take it away

I want my father; promises he did give

Without taking me, why did he leave?"

They removed the cloth; Sakina beheld the face

Even in death, it was full of heavenly grace

With a cry, she flung herself on the wooden tray

Hugging to her heart, she snatched the face away.

Inconsolably, she bent down over the head

Putting, her cheeks, against that of her dad

Within a few moments, her sobbing had stopped

Her mortal remains, she had quietly dropped.

"How long will you lie on your father's head?"

Zainab touched her hand; she was shockingly dead

Sakina had gone with her father, never to return

Husain had kept his promise, as he had always done!”

The poem highlights not only bond of Bibi Sakina with Imam Hussain but also reveals the wickedness of Yazid (LA) towards an innocent child at a time when she was crying for her beloved father. Atrocious  persons like Yazid(LA) are still perpetrating crime against children. They are being killed, maimed, criminally assaulted and being recruited to serve the interest of outfits like Islamic State.The current scenario calls for remembering Bibi Sakina and her persecution every day.Such move will propel organizations like UNICEF to work more seriously for protecting children from oppression. As of now world seems to be shockingly  indifferent to plight of children in a number of countries.Such an attitude surely is not the proper way of remembering Bibi Sakina. (References available on request.Photo Courtesy-Google Image)            

Lesser known Imambaras of Bangladesh

Entrance of Mir Yakub Imambara in Dhaka 

Dr.Mazhar Naqvi

Hussaini Dalan is undoubtedly the best known and well-maintained Imambara of Bangladesh. It was also in news following terrorist attack on ‘Ashura’ procession taken out from its holy precincts in October 2015.Since most of the oldest Muharram ceremonies are solemnized in and around Hussaini Dalan in Dhaka; the other Imambaras of Bangladesh rarely feature in media. Hence, the azadar world remains unknown to them. Even non-Imami communities are unaware of the existence of others Imambaras of Bangladesh. While searching for Muharram ceremonies in Bangladesh, the blogger came to know about as many as 16 other Imambaras in Dhaka itself. 

One of them is on Hussaini Dalan road itself and known as Imambara Mir Yakub. There are two Imambaras in Shia Goli (Lane)   itself with the name Al Najaf and Suba Saheb. In Armani Tola is located Bechram Dewri Imambara. The name suggests its construction by a Hindu. Two Imambaras derive their names from women Azadars. One of them is called as Shirin Begum Ka Imambara and located in Shakumia Goli. The other is situated in Bakshi Bazar and known as Bibi Zahran Ka Imambara. One comes across the names of three other leading Azadars of their time from the names of Imambaras built by them. Imambara Nawab Chuttan Saheb exists in Satrauza area while the one named after Mirza Kazim Sahib is on Nizamuddin road. Imambara Marhoom Abbas Mirza sahib is in Kana Goli. The oldest among other Imambaras is in Farashganj locality and popular as Bibi Rauza. It was reportedly built even before the construction of Hussaini Dalan. Bangladeshis firmly believe that the soul of Bibi Fatima, the daughter of Prophet Hazrat Muhammad, wife of Maula-e-Kaynat Hazrat Ali and mother of Imam Hasan and Hussain, rests in shrine at Farashganj. They attribute the arrival of her soul to Dhaka in view of the harsh treatment meted out to her after the death of her father. The story has been passing from one generation to the other till date in oral traditions and quite popular among the devotees. The other sites for mourning the martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain are in Chalk Bazar, Purana Paltan, Mohammadpur, Polash Nagar, Shirazi House and Maghbazar areas of old Dhaka.

Beyond Dhaka, Jessore, Thakurgaon,Khulna, Sylhet, Chattagram, Ccomilla also has Imambaras dating back to Nawabi and colonial era. A prominent Nauhakhwan of Dhaka Syed Azam Hossain has listed the Imambaras of Bangladesh on a website but not been able to give many details about their construction or the builders. He has not done it deliberately, for there is surely dearth of related material. Even Syed Muhammad Taifur(1875-1972), author, antiquarian and  historian, has not discussed about Imambaras in his famous book titled ‘Old Dhaka’.  

References:

1-azadari-bangladesh.weebly.com

2-Blog Lonely Traveler

3-Photo Courtesy -Hussainidalan Com.

Muharram in Lakshadweep Island

A View of Muharram Procession with Traditional 'Dhols' 

Dr.Mazhar Naqvi

Lakshadweep is a tiny island of India but it is second to none in observing Muharram rituals. The martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain and his companions is recalled in Lakshadweep with much zeal and fervor. Muharram is also observed with complete inter-faith understanding as both Imamis and non-Imamis mourn the killing of Prophet’s grandson Imam Hussain on the arid plains of Karbala (Iraq) in 680 AD. They pay glowing tributes to Imam for preferring to die instead of paying allegiance to Caliph Yazid. History records Yazid as a drunkard, tyrant and womanizer who openly denied that any holy book was ever revealed on Prophet Hazrat Muhammad. On numerous occasions, he had declared that’ Bani Hashim’, the clan of Prophet, had cooked up the story of Prophet Hood and revelation to gain power. Yazid was morally so lax that he maintained illicit relations with women used by his own father. Several scholars have written that he had scant regards for holy Quran, Prophet and tenets of Islam. They have also dubbed him as the first composer of obscene poetry. He became caliph following the death of his father.

To gain legitimacy to his un-Islamic acts, he sought allegiance from Imam and forced him to leave Medina. His forces surrounded him at Karbala, denied them even water for three days and finally slaughtered Imam and his small band of companions on 10^th of Muharram in 61 Hijri. Since then, his martyrdom with three days hunger and thirst is being observed ever year.

Lakshadweep also does not lag behind in paying tribute to the king of martyrs. The island had no Muslims before the arrival of Hazrat Ubaidullah of Mecca. He preached Islam among the locals and braved their resistance with humbleness, piety and noble character. As a sequel to his efforts, over 93 per cent inhabitants of the island today are Muslims. Majority of them are non-Imamis but they observe Muharram with solemnity and splendor. They take out very heavily embellished Tazias in mass processions throughout the streets of Lakshadweep.          

Imamis also observe Muharram in accordance with their traditional rituals. They perform ‘Matam’(Chest beating) and also organize mourning assemblies. They also wear black clothes, wail and lament like their counterparts in rest of the world to mourn the tragedy of Karbala. They cry Ya Hussain Ya Hussain while beating their chests. The island has no history of sectarian violence but how long the inter-faith understanding will survive? Only the time will answer the question. There has already been penetration of fanatics in Lakshadweep. They have also erected a mosque and embarked upon a ‘mission’ to discourage people from participating in Muharram ceremonies. These fanatics are followers of those unleashing terror in the world in the name of Islam. They are the ones who once enjoyed the backing of US, its allies and are still receiving funds from Sheikhs of Gulf who never relished Muharram ceremonies in view of its call to rise against oppression even if one is pitted against a tyrant with resources in abundance. Indian government needs to be very cautious against the infiltration of such elements in a quiet and serene island like Lakshadweep. A close monitoring is necessary or else the island known for its religious tolerance and observance of Muharram with grandeur may face what Belgium is facing at present. Such a situation should never be allowed to appear in Lakshadweep island its divine beauty thanks to a wide variety of flora and fauna accompanied by sun-kissed beaches.

Muslims Paying Heavily for Forgetting 'Mubahila'

Legacy of Mubahila 

Dr. Mazhar Naqvi

Muslims are paying a very heavy price for ignoring the importance of Eid-e-Mubahila. After Paris blasts, the entire world is trying to project Islam as a religion that preaches violence and encourages its followers to kill innocent people. Though the French government or the Christian community at large has exhibited a restrained and balance reaction to the terrorist attack, it cannot be denied that the tragic episode is being perceived as a ‘war’ between Christianity and Islam. The air strikes on the suspected hideouts of Islamic State (IS) as a sequel to Paris blasts is a pointer to the fact. But will it produce the desired results or lead to elimination of ‘Jihadis” is highly debatable. Apparently, France and her allies are resorting to heavy bombarding to avenge the killing of innocent people but they are also trying to project that the democratic, civilized and liberalized nations dominated by Christians can’t be taken for granted.

Amidst reports that about 40 Muslim nations have been funding IS and it is the richest terrorist outfit of the world, followers of Islam are also rightly condemning Paris blasts. Two Muslim nations have also offered their air-stripes made available to France for launching aerial offensive against IS. The gesture of Muslim nations seems to be very good. But it is also a time for the heads of these nations to ponder as to why Islam has emerged as a synonym for terrorism? Why are they considered to be stooge of some powerful nations? How British, French and other European nations were able to control and exploit their resources, especially oil. The introspection would let them know how severely they have suffered by distancing themselves from the path of Prophet and his family.

They need to remember that it was a Christian delegation that had agreed to pay tax to Muslims to continue to profess their faith and avoided discussion with the Prophet after agreeing to it. They backed out the moment they saw Prophet Hazrat Muhammad and his companions namely Bibi Fatima, Hazrat Ali and their children Hasan and Hussain. The priest heading the  delegation warned members of his community to avoid discussion with the holy five. His exclamatory words were “ I am witnessing such shining and pious faces that if they prayed even the mountains will be razed.” His words echo the power of the character of Prophet and his progeny. It was this character that resulted in the tremendous popularity of Islam and its emergence as a powerful faith of true followers. The image of Islam remained such so long as Muslims followed the traditions of prophet and his progeny. But things changed drastically when those elements surfaced again who had cowed down before the prophet. These power-hungry neo-converts reintroduced almost all what was prohibited by Prophet. As a result, the tragedy of Karbala took place. It drew a permanent line of distinction between true and fake Islam, led to the ouster of Umayyad and enthronement of Abbasids on the plea of avenging the pious blood of Imam Hussain. But how these Abbasids persecuted followers of Ahle-bait more than the Umayyad is a well-known fact of the history. Their fascination for luxury is also not a hidden fact. Heads of Muslim nations in the 21^st century is somewhat similar to Umayyad and Abbasid caliphs. They rarely make attempt to preach Islam the way it was revealed and practised by Prophet and his Ahle-Bait. They do so to protect their kingdoms, knowing very well that Islam rejects heredity and encourages selection of the leader. They adopt a policy to use false propaganda against Karbala revolution, for its was there Imam Hussain had laid down his life for saving democratic and human values.They also fund terrorist outfits to attack Muharram processions and Pakistan is worst example of sectarian violence.By doing so they try to prolong their rule and pay little attention to character building.As a result,they have affluence but a very disappointing young generation.They offer prayers regularly but make little effort to excel in science,technology and other studies.This has resulted in their reliance on western world and Muslim nations in the process have literally know say in world affairs.What a shame?They are bowing their heads to those whose ancestors  had refrained themselves from even discussion with what to say about the prophet but even his little grandsons.Alas! they had not forgotten the event of Mubahila. This would have helped them remember that it was not material wealth or knowledge but the shining character of the prophet and his family that had brought glory to Islam without the use of weapon.It is still not too late for Muslims to act upon Hussaini philosophy.In the current scenario,they must realize that they can restore their lost glory by following the teachings of Prophet and Masoomeen.                                         

Inauspicious Month Safar or Tera Tezi in French Memoir

Garcin De Tassy  

Dr.Mazhar Naqvi 

The month of Safar, the second Islamic month, is inauspicious may be debatable. But it surely has figured prominently in the memoirs of 19^th century French indologist Garcin de Tassy. The description in the memoir originally written in French and translated into English later by Prof.M.Waseem of Jamia Milia Islamia University, New Delhi reads as follows:

"In the month of Safar, Muhammad, the friend of God, fell ill. The vehemence of pain continued for thirteen days and it could recede only at the intervention of the creator’s bounty. It is for this reason that the Muslims consider inauspicious the first thirteen days of this moon. On the thirteenth ,which they call violence, Tezi, they have the practice of making in the prophet’s name offerings of chick-peas and wheat, which they distribute in small quantities.    

Tassy has given different version about the last Wednesday of the month. He has written that the Imamis consider the last Wednesday of Safar as inauspicious and they don’t dare to come even out of their house on this day but Sunnis rejoice on this day and go for strolling in the garden. Why it so? he has not mentioned but given in his memoir two special prayers that should be recited on this day. He has quoted a Muslim prayer book printed in Calcutta titled Hidayatul Islam( Guide to Islam) as source of his information.

The first prayer reads : ‘We address you with respect and submission. You know what is there in their hearts. We seek your mercy, O the most Generous of generous beings”

The second prayer consists of the following versus of the holy Quran “Salutations to you. Enter Paradise joyfully to live there eternally. Such is the greetings of the merciful Lord. Salutation among the created beings to Abraham,to Moses and Aaron ,to Elijah, peace till the dawning of the day..... Moreover ,the 28^th and 29^th of this whatever day of the week they may fall on –are considered unlucky; the 28^th ,because it was on this date that Hasan, (the grandson of  Prophet Muhammad and elder brother of Imam Hussain)was poisoned to death by his wife and the 29^th ,because harmful vegetables Are supposed to grown on this date." 

Tassy has based his description on the ‘Bara Masa’(Twelve months ) a didactic poem written by Kazim Ali Jawan and who has given a faithful description of Indian festivals in his account. The memoir of Tassy was published for the first time in 1826.