Muharram 2026: Muharram is the first month in the Islamic calendar, but it is not associated with any holiday or celebration but rather with asceticism, sacrifice and mourning. Every year when Muharram comes, the question arises in people’s minds: Why is it celebrated in mourning? While most religious holidays symbolize happiness and celebration, Muharram reminds us of an event in history that had a profound impact on the Islamic world.
The tenth day of this month, called Ashura, has special significance. On this day, on the land of Karbala, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, Hazrat Imam Hussein and his companions were martyred while fighting against injustice. For this reason, Muharram is considered a time of mourning, remembrance and contemplation. Millions of Muslims around the world remember this day with respect and reverence.
What is forbidden and why is it special?
The month of Muharram is considered the first month in the Islamic Hijri calendar. It is included in the four sacred months in Islam. But the most important day is Ashura, which falls on the tenth day of Muharram. This day is seen not only as a historical event, but also as a memory of the ultimate sacrifice made for truth, justice and principles. For this reason, the importance of Muharram transcends religious boundaries and is also linked to human values.
The Battle of Karbala and the martyrdom of Imam Hussein
How did the controversy start?
According to Islamic history, after the death of Prophet Hazrat Muhammad, different ideas emerged regarding the leadership of the Muslim community. Political and religious differences increased over time. When Yazid came to power, he demanded Bayat (i.e. loyalty) from the people, but Hazrat Imam Hussein did not accept this. He believed that the use of force must be in accordance with the principles of justice and religion.
What happened in Karbala?
In 680 AD, Yazid’s army besieged Imam Hussein and his limited companions in the Karbala region in present-day Iraq. The war broke out after they were deprived of water and basic resources for several days. History tells us that in this struggle Imam Hussein, his family and his supporters were martyred. This incident is considered among the most emotional and important events in Islamic history. To commemorate this martyrdom, mourning is held on the day of Ashura.
Why is mourning celebrated?
Mourning Muharram is not just a way to express sadness. It also symbolizes the struggle against injustice, standing for truth, and remembering sacrifices. The Shiite community in particular remembers the martyrdom of Imam Hussein on this day. In many places, people wear black clothes, attend gatherings, and listen to narrations of the events of Karbala. Tajiya processions are also being organized in some places. However, over time, many religious scholars also said that instead of inflicting self-torment, people should focus on actions such as social service, blood donation and service to humanity, so that Imam Hussein’s message can be carried out positively.
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Citation symbol
Tajiya is the special center of attraction during the month of Muharram. It is a symbolic building made of bamboo, paper and decorative materials, and it reminds us of the tomb of Imam Hussein in Karbala. Tajji processions take place in many countries including India. People participate in it wholeheartedly and keep the memory of martyrdom alive.
What is the relationship between Shiite and Sunni differences?
According to historians, after the Prophet Muhammad, different opinions emerged in Islamic society on the issue of leadership. Gradually, these differences developed into Shiite and Sunni traditions. The Karbala incident had a deeper impact on these differences. The Shiite sect considers the martyrdom of Imam Hussein a central event in its religious history, while the Sunni sect also respects it and gives special importance to Ashura Day.
The Muharram message in our time
Muharram is not just a commemoration of a historical event. It teaches us that we should not abandon our principles and our truth even in difficult circumstances. Imam Hussein’s sacrifices even today inspire us to raise our voice against injustice and protect moral values.
