Pakistani Hindus join Shiite Muslims in Muharram observances honoring Imam Hussein
6 reported
Some members of Pakistan’s Hindu community take part in Muharram traditions alongside Shiite Muslims in the port city of Karachi, according to a report from the Associated Press. The observances honor the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, who was killed during the Battle of Karbala in present-day Iraq in the seventh century. Raju Rathore, a Pakistani Hindu, said his devotion to Imam Hussein came from his parents, and he has crafted tazias — temporary replicas of Hussein’s mausoleum — for about 45 years in fulfillment of a vow made by his mother. Another Pakistani Hindu, Bharat Kumar, said he also respects Imam Hussein and participates in rituals including chest beating and processions. The involvement of non-Shiite communities in Muharram rituals has long been documented across South Asia, according to Justin Jones, a professor of religious studies at the University of Oxford. Jones said Shiite rulers in several South Asian kingdoms historically sponsored processions, helping turn them into public events that drew wider audiences. According to Pakistan’s 2023 census, Hindus number nearly 3.9 million people, making them the country’s largest religious minority.
What’s reported
Some members of Pakistan’s Hindu community participate in Muharram traditions alongside Shiite Muslims in Karachi.
Muharram commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, killed during the Battle of Karbala in the seventh century.
Raju Rathore, a Pakistani Hindu, has crafted tazias for about 45 years in fulfillment of a vow by his mother.
Bharat Kumar, another Pakistani Hindu, said he respects Imam Hussein and participates in rituals including chest beating and processions.
Justin Jones, a professor at the University of Oxford, said Shiite rulers in South Asia historically sponsored processions, making them public events.
According to Pakistan’s 2023 census, Hindus number nearly 3.9 million people, the country’s largest religious minority.
Key figures
Raju Rathore, Pakistani Hindu who crafts tazias
Bharat Kumar, Pakistani Hindu who respects Imam Hussein
Justin Jones, professor of religious studies at the University of Oxford
Sources: abcnews.com
