ISLAMABAD: Pakistanis across the country are observing Youm-e-Ashura today with deep religious reverence. Mourners are holding massive processions nationwide to honor the supreme sacrifices of the martyrs of Karbala.
The day marks the martyrdom of Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) grandson, Hazrat Imam Hussain, and his companions by the Yazidi army in Karbala. To commemorate this event, participants are leading traditional processions featuring replicas of battle standards (Alam), coffins (Taboot), and the holy horse (Zuljanah).
Every major city and town is hosting these processions. In Lahore, the main procession departed from Nisar Haveli inside the historic Mochi Gate. In Karachi, mourners gathered at Nishtar Park for a central religious sermon before starting their main march.
Authorities have enforced Section 144 across Punjab province to maintain order during the holy month of Muharram.
Similar major processions are underway in Peshawar, Quetta, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Multan, Gilgit, Skardu, and Muzaffarabad. Mourners are carrying traditional flags and replicas of shrines. Volunteers have set up free water and milk stalls (Sabeels) along all designated routes.
Security forces have deployed strict measures to protect the public. Police have barricaded transit points to block unauthorized traffic from the procession routes. In high-risk areas, the government has suspended mobile phone and internet services to prevent disruptions.
For Muslims, Ashura conveys a universal message of patience, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to principles. On this day, Imam Hussain raised his voice for truth against tyranny. He and his family sacrificed their lives in the plains of Karbala, an act of faith that millions honor every year.
