Hindu-Muslim Muharram in Khairabad

Dr.Mazhar Naqvi

Khairabad town in Sitapur district has a tradition of Muharram observance jointly by the Hindus and Muslims  with  ‘Bawan Dandon ka Tazia’ (a structure standing on 52 sticks) as unique feature. Instead of Yaume Ashura(10^th Muharram),this Tazia is buried on  11th Muharram, perhaps the only place in India. The 52-sticks represent Mohallas(Localities) of Khairabad-the land Sufis and  legendry poets.

Taziadari is believed to have started in Khairabad from the time  of Hazrat Yousuf Khan Ghani who ruled Khairabad in 12^th century.People from neighboring districts also take part in the procession. The march starts from Roza Darwaza Ghazi Sahab Dargah on the 10th Muharram and reaches Chowk area at around 4pm. Then it passes through mohalla Sheikh Sarai at 1 am when people of the management committee distribute Tabarruk to people. Finally, the procession concludes at Karbala on the 11th Muharram. The tazia is prepared at the dargah. Twenty sticks are on the outer side, while 32 are placed in the interior of the Tazia.

The famous Makki Darzi Ka Imambara was erected during Nawabi Area. Imambara is now not in a good shape. Similarly, Qadam Rasul adjacent to Imambara is also poorly maintained.

Source:Personal Observation