By Blog.Travel-Culture.com
Every year, the sacred month of Muharram brings cities across Pakistan to life with devotion, mourning, and remembrance. The 9th and 10th of Muharram, particularly Ashura (10th), mark the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (AS), the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), in Karbala. One of the most powerful traditions in this remembrance is the public procession—led by mourners, scholars, and artisans—centered around Tazias, or symbolic replicas of Imam Hussain’s tomb.
This article explores the unique Tazia traditions and procession routes in key cities across Pakistan, each rich with history and regional identity.
Karachi
In Pakistan’s largest city, Muharram processions are massive and deeply rooted in cultural heritage. The central procession on the 10th of Muharram begins from Nishtar Park and ends at Hussainian Iranian Imambargah in Kharadar. The city’s symbolic wooden and glass Tazias are carried by mourners dressed in black, accompanied by Noha Khwans and matam.
Historic Imambargahs such as Shah-e-Karbala, Martin Road and Ali Raza Imambargah on M.A. Jinnah Road play key roles in organizing processions.
Hyderabad
Hyderabad’s old city retains centuries-old Tazia traditions, especially in areas like Phuleli, Qadam Gah Moula Ali, and Station Road. Processions are known for their wooden Tazias adorned with mirrorwork and tinsel. The Ashura procession starts from Liaquat Colony and passes through Resham Gali, culminating at the Imambargah Qadam Gah Moula Ali.
Sukkur
Sukkur is known for its giant, multi-tiered, and vibrantly colored Tazias. The oldest processions emerge from Old Sukkur, where historic Imambargahs like Markazi Imambargah serve as focal points. The Tazia procession follows a route through Shahi Bazaar, Minara Road, and concludes at Ali Wali Qabar.
Multan
Multan, the City of Saints, carries a deep spiritual tradition. Processions begin from Imambargah Hakim Shah and move toward Chowk Bazaar and Hussain Agahi. The Tazias here are known for their graceful structure, adorned with calligraphy and Islamic motifs. Notably, the shrines of Shah Shams and Bahauddin Zakariya also host large gatherings.
Lahore
Lahore’s 10th Muharram procession begins at the historic Mochi Gate and passes through Islampura, Krishan Nagar, and Khaima-e-Sadaat. The most prominent Tazias are carried from the Mubarak Haveli and Pando Street. The artistic work on these Tazias often dates back to the Mughal period, with detailed wood carvings and glass inlays.
Chiniot
Chiniot is renowned for its handcrafted wooden Tazias made by skilled local artisans. These are more than religious symbols—they are art pieces showcasing centuries-old Sheesham woodwork. The 10th Muharram procession starts from the Main Bazaar and ends at the central Imambargah. The Tazias are displayed publicly before being carried in procession and then respectfully buried or stored.
Rawalpindi
In Rawalpindi, the key Ashura procession begins from the Col. Maqbool Imambargah in Raja Bazaar and passes through Trunk Bazaar, Banni Chowk, and Liaquat Road. The city is known for its disciplined and tightly secured processions, accompanied by recitations of Nauhas and Marsiyas.
Peshawar
Though a minority community, Shia Muslims in Peshawar have preserved Muharram traditions with great respect. Processions often begin from Imambargah Agha Syed Alam Shah and proceed through Qissa Khwani Bazaar. Due to security concerns, processions are usually conducted under high alert, but the spirit remains firm.
Gilgit
In Gilgit-Baltistan, the 10th Muharram processions are especially significant in areas like Gilgit City, Skardu, and Kharmang. Processions begin early morning and move through traditional routes like Jutial Chowk to Imamia Masjid. Gilgit’s unique culture blends local traditions with classical mourning rituals. Tazias here are often handmade and modest but carried with great devotion.
Preserving Tradition and Faith
Each city in Pakistan carries a unique way of remembering the tragedy of Karbala. From the detailed woodwork of Chiniot to the colorful grandeur of Sukkur’s Tazias, the cultural diversity of Muharram is a reflection of Pakistan’s deep spiritual roots. Procession routes have become part of city heritage—walked by generations in mourning, prayer, and solidarity.
Despite regional differences, the essence remains the same: honoring Imam Hussain’s sacrifice for justice, truth, and humanity.
Written by Jamal Panhwar Blog.Travel-Culture.com assitance from chatgpt.com – Promoting Spiritual and Cultural Heritage of Pakistan
