Ashura Observed Across Pakistan Amid Tight Security
KARACHI/LAHORE/RAWALPINDI: The 10th of Muharram, known as Youm-e-Ashura, is being observed with solemnity and religious devotion across the country today, commemorating the supreme sacrifice of Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS) and his loyal companions in Karbala.
The day symbolizes unwavering faith and courage, as Imam Hussain (AS), the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), along with his family and followers, stood firm against tyranny to uphold the principles of Islam.
Processions are being held in cities and towns nationwide, with participants engaging in mourning rituals to honor the martyrdom at Karbala. Stringent security arrangements have been made to ensure safety, and authorities have placed law enforcement on high alert to prevent any untoward incidents.
To reinforce security during the holy month, the Ministry of Interior had earlier approved the deployment of Pakistan Army and Civil Armed Forces across the country. In addition, mobile and internet services remain suspended in several cities as a preventive measure.
Karachi
In Karachi, the main procession began at Nishtar Park and will follow its traditional route before concluding at Bargah Hussainian Iranian in Kharadar this evening with Sham-e-Ghareeban. Pillion riding remains banned, and major roads like MA Jinnah Road have been closed. Shops and markets in Saddar, Empress Market, and Regal Market areas have also been sealed.
Lahore
The central procession in Lahore started from Nisar Haveli in Mochi Gate and will culminate at Karbala Gaamay Shah in the evening. Mourning gatherings and rituals are ongoing throughout the city.
Rawalpindi
In Rawalpindi, the main Zuljanah procession commenced from Imam Bargah Colonel Maqbool Hussain and is set to end at Qadeemi Imam Bargah after Maghrib prayers. According to orders from Rawalpindi Division Commissioner Engineer Aamir Khattak, 5,500 police personnel have been deployed throughout the city.
Leaders Pay Tribute to Karbala Martyrs
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif paid heartfelt tribute to Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS) and his companions. In their messages, they emphasized that Ashura carries the timeless message of sacrifice, truth, integrity, and resistance against oppression.
President Zardari urged the nation to embody the values of Imam Hussain (AS), advocating for honesty, moral governance, and public welfare. He stated that the tragedy of Karbala is not just a historical event but a moral guide for humanity, highlighting conscience, courage, and the true spirit of religion.
He added that Imam Hussain (AS) and his companions, by enduring hunger, thirst, and martyrdom, taught the world an unforgettable lesson of standing firm in the face of tyranny. Their message remains alive and urges people to uphold truth and justice at all costs.
The president also called on the nation to commit to building a Pakistan that reflects the values of Imam Hussain (AS), rooted in justice, unity, brotherhood, and tolerance.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in his message, emphasized that Ashura provides deep lessons in patience, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to principles. He described the battle of Karbala as a universal message for all humanity, not bound by time or place.
He said that standing by the truth requires great strength and devotion and that the teachings of Imam Hussain (AS) guide us toward spiritual satisfaction, divine approval, and lasting peace. The prime minister urged the nation to embrace honesty, tolerance, and justice in all spheres of life.
He expressed hope that by following the path illuminated by Karbala, Pakistan can become a just, self-reliant, and welfare-oriented state. Concluding his message, he prayed for national unity, stability, and a future filled with peace and dignity.
