Riyasati Imambara of Nanpara=A Shadow of the Past
Dr.Mazhar Naqvi
The famous ‘Riyasati Imambara’ of
Nanpara near Bahraich was built by hindu King Jang Bahadur about 150 years ago.
The ruler had also initiated a Tazia and Alam procession that is now taken out
Anjuman-E-Abbasia. After merger of Nanpara State into ndian union,Imambara has
lost much of is sheen but it stands proudly as a symbol of a hindu king’s love
for martyrs of Karbala.
During princely days, the Muharram
procession was taken out with royal grandeur and even elephants, camels and well-dressed
soldiers used to be its part. The ruler himself used to lead the procession and
host a large ‘Langar’ for devotees. Jang Bahadur was also in the habit of extending
invitations to prominent scholars and marsiyakhwans from far off laces to
address majls and elegiac poetry to commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussain.
Currently, Shias of Nanpara had taken
upon themselves to carry on the legacy left by the Hindu king, for his descendants
no longer live in the city and settled elsewhere. They ensure every year that
all the customs and rituals observed during the heydays of the princely state
remain intact. Of course, there is no regalia but the tradition of religious tolerance
is seen like yesteryears. A larg number of Hindus attend the procession and
make it a point to take tabarruk before leaving to their respective places. Women
too make their children pass under the Tazia for their well-being.
Raja Jangbahadur was born in 1845 and died in 1886.Nanpara state was established in the regime of mughal Emperor Shahjehan in 17th century.
Raja Jangbahadur was born in 1845 and died in 1886.Nanpara state was established in the regime of mughal Emperor Shahjehan in 17th century.
Source:Personal Observation.Photo
Courtesy Google images
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