Religious gatherings at Azakhana Riffat Hashmi in Islamabad concluded in an atmosphere of devotion, reverence and communal participation as the annual Muharram majalis and processions came to an end after ten days of mourning traditions observed for more than two decades.
Held under the supervision of Special Secretary National Assembly and media anchor Syed Shamoon Hashmi, the commemorations drew mourners from Islamabad and Rawalpindi who attended the majalis with a strong sense of grief and remembrance for the sacrifice of Karbala.
From 1st Muharram until the eve of Ashura, renowned religious scholar Allama Syed Mubashir Zaidi delivered a series of sermons on the theme Mizan-e-Istikhlaf and the Qualities of the Representative of the Almighty. Drawing from the Holy Quran, the traditions of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) and the teachings of the Ahlul Bayt (AS), his lectures highlighted the moral, spiritual and religious lessons associated with the message of Karbala.
The Muharram majalis were marked by several traditional symbolic processions. The cradle procession of Hazrat Ali Asghar (AS) was taken out on 6th Muharram, while the Mehndi procession of Hazrat Qasim (AS) followed on 7th Muharram. After the central majlis on 8th Muharram, the Shabeeh Zuljanah and the Alam of Hazrat Abbas (AS) were also brought out in line with established custom.
Mourning organisations from Islamabad and Rawalpindi took part in the gatherings through Matamdari and Nauha Khwani, adding to the solemn and devotional atmosphere. A 45-foot-tall Alam installed for the 8th Muharram gathering also became a prominent feature of the event and remained a focal point for visitors throughout the commemorative period.
At the close of each majlis, Niaz and Sabeel were distributed in the name of Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS) for all attendees without distinction, reflecting the spirit of service and sharing associated with the observance.
The ten-day commemoration attracted a large number of mourners from the twin cities, along with several notable public figures. Among the attendees were Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Faisal Karim Kundi, Members of the National Assembly Abdul Qadir Patel, Agha Rafiullah, Abrar Shah, Mir Ghulam Ali Talpur and Syed Raza Bukhari, as well as members of the Senate, national and provincial assemblies, media representatives and other distinguished guests.
Throughout the Muharram majalis and processions, comprehensive security arrangements were maintained. Organisers and participants expressed appreciation to the Islamabad administration and Islamabad Police for ensuring a peaceful and secure environment during all religious gatherings.
