Muharram in Hindu Kingdom of Vijay Nagar

Dr.Mazhar Naqvi

The contribution to Azadari by rulers of Hindu Kingdom of Vijay Nagar has so far given unnoticed. It is simply ironical. Imami scholars need to pay attention to the neglect of Vijay Nagar Empire ‘s role in popularizing Azadari before being destroyed by the combines forces of Bahmani Sultans. At a time when anti-Imami forces both Muslims and Non-Muslims are striving  to discourage from participating in Muharram processions, Vijay Nagar Model needs to be presented before them and people must know how a Hindu kingdom revered Imam Hussain’s martyrdom, cutting across the lines of religion.

All the rulers of Vijayanagar empire were devout Hindus. Most of the rulers were devotees of Vaishnavism. However, they were tolerant towards all religious. The Mulsims, the Christians, the Yahudis and the people of other faiths enjoyed equal freedom. According to a foreign traveller Eduardo Barbosa.” The kings allow such freedom that everyman may come and go and live according to his own creed.”

Several festivals particularly connected with the Shia faith were celeberated by the Muslims. The martyrdom of Imam Husain and Prophet’s birthday were the most important festivals. Drinking of wine, cutting of hair, etc. were prohibited during Muharram. People from all walks of life used to observe Muharram with solemnity and even rulers performed Taziadari.  

The Vijayanagara Empire (also called Karnata Empire, and the Kingdom of Bisnegar by the Portuguese) was based in the Deccan Plateau region in South India. It was established in 1336 by Harihara I and his brother Bukka Raya I of Sangama Dynasty. The empire rose to prominence as a culmination of attempts by the southern powers to ward off Islamic invasions by the end of the 13th century. It lasted until 1646, although its power declined after a major military defeat in the Battle of Talikota in 1565 by the combined armies of the Deccan sultanates. The empire is named after its capital city of Vijayanagara, whose ruins surround present day Hampi, now a World Heritage Site in Karnataka province of  India.

Reference:Wikipedia