Muharram 2025: Date, Significance, Rituals & Observances of Ashura in India

Muharram, the first and one of the most sacred months in the Islamic calendar, has commenced, marking the beginning of the Hijri New Year. Regarded as the second holiest month after Ramadan, it carries deep spiritual significance for both Sunni and Shia Muslims around the world. In 2025, Muharram began in India on June 27, following the sighting of the moon on June 26, and Ashura—the 10th day and the most solemn day of the month—will be observed on Sunday, July 6, 2025.

 What is Muharram?

Muharram, meaning “forbidden” in Arabic, is one of the four sacred months in Islam during which warfare and violence are strictly prohibited. It is not just a time of reflection and spiritual renewal but also a period of mourning and reverence, especially for Shia Muslims.

It signifies the start of the Islamic New Year and sets a tone of introspection, patience, and devotion. The first ten days are especially important, culminating in the observance of Ashura.

 When is Ashura 2025?

Ashura, the 10th day of Muharram, falls on July 6, 2025, in India. Initially, there was some uncertainty about whether Ashura would be observed on July 6 or 7, due to traditional moon-sighting variations. However, confirmation from major moon-sighting committees in India has officially fixed Sunday, July 6 as the day of Ashura.

Muharram 2025: Will July 6 Be a Public Holiday?

Since Ashura falls on a Sunday this year, no additional holiday has been declared for banks, schools, or government offices. As of now, neither the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) nor the National Stock Exchange (NSE) has issued notifications for a holiday on Monday, July 7. Hence, all major institutions are expected to function as usual.

 Significance of Ashura

Ashura holds immense importance in Islamic history, particularly for commemorating the martyrdom of Imam Hussain, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad. He was martyred in the Battle of Karbala on this day, symbolizing the eternal fight against injustice and tyranny.

For Sunni Muslims, the day is marked by fasting, prayers, and reflection. It is considered a way to seek blessings and forgiveness. Shia Muslims, on the other hand, observe Ashura as a day of mourning, honoring the sacrifice of Imam Hussain with majlis (gatherings), matam (mourning rituals), and Tazia processions.

 Tazia Processions: A Visual Devotion

One of the most iconic elements of Ashura, particularly among Indian Shia communities, is the Tazia procession. Tazias are artistically crafted miniature replicas of Imam Hussain’s tomb, made using bamboo, paper, and colorful fabrics.

These sacred replicas are often displayed in homes in the days leading up to Ashura, beautifully lit at night, and treated with immense reverence. On the day of Ashura, Tazias are carried through the streets in processions and later ceremoniously buried in local cemeteries—symbolizing both devotion and closure to the mourning period.

 A Month of Peace, Patience, and Prayer

Muharram is not just a historical remembrance but a spiritual call to embody patience, humility, and peace. Across the world, Muslims engage in acts of charity, communal prayers, Quranic recitations, and self-discipline during this time.

With Ashura falling on a weekend in 2025, the observances are expected to draw significant participation, offering a meaningful moment of collective faith and reflection.

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Muharram 2025: Date, Significance, and Traditions of the Islamic New Year