Ashura: A Day the Nation Grieves, Reflects, and Remembers

Roads are less busy today all around the country. There is a heaviness in the surroundings. The tenth of Muharram, YoumeAshur, has arrived, bringing with it memories of Karbala that never fade.

People began gathering early in the morning not to celebrate, but to mourn. This is for a man who stood strong while everyone else stayed quiet, Hazrat Imam Hussain (Razi Allah Ta’ala Anho). Who chose truth over survival. Who didn’t bend in front of injustice, even when everything was on cost.

It’s not just a ritual. It’s personal. Families pass down stories of Karbala like heirlooms. Kids hear the name “Hussain” and learn it means courage. It means standing your ground when right and wrong aren’t just concepts; they’re lines in the sand.

Processions moved through city streets, slow and somber. Men, women, children, some with tears, some in silence, all united in grief. And in every majlis, Ulema and Zakireen reminded everyone what that sacrifice meant.

The security was rigorous. But no earthly force can protect the spirit Ashura carries. It dwells in people, in their steps, their prayers, their sorrow.

Earlier this month, on the first of Muharram, we also remembered Hazrat Umar ibn alKhattab (RA) a leader, a martyr, a supporter of early Islam. His death, too, was characterised by suffering and direction.

Ashura is not only a day of grief. It mirrors itself. It asks us what we stand for.

And just like that, Karbala speaks again.