TAXILA: The chehlum of Imam Hussain (RA) was observed amid tight security in Attock on Sunday.

The event marks the culmination of a 40-day mourning period after 10th Muharram, the martyrdom date of Imam Hussain and his 72 companions in 680 AD. Mourning processions with Alam, Tazia and Zuljinah were taken out in the city to mark the day.

Foolproof security arrangements had been made for the processions. The main procession was taken out from Imambargah Panjtani.

“Karbala is a lesson which gives the message of upholding righteousness and truth by mankind for their eternal success and defeating the nefarious designs of devilish forces,” said religious leader Muntazir Mahdi while addressing a majlis at the imambargah. He narrated the difficulties faced by Imam Hussain and his followers for the glory of Islam.

He said Imam Hussain is not only a great hero of the Islamic history but is also the symbol of a unique philosophy and way of life which draws a line between the noble force of Hussainniat and Yazidiat.

However, he added, it was the need of the hour that we should realise our responsibilities as a nation and defeat the designs of anti-Islam forces by promoting unity and religious harmony among our ranks. Latter, the Azadar performed “Zanjeerzani” and “Matam” by beating their chests. Sabeels of water, milk and food stalls were also set up under the surveillance of security personnel on the route of procession to facilitate the mourners.

The mourners offered Zhurain prayers near Fowara Chowk which was led by Maulana Shakari. Later, the procession culminated at Markazi Imambargah Hussainia at Kamalpur Syedan, Attock Cantonment.

Published in Dawn, November 6th, 2017