Muharram observed in Kolkata

KOLKATA - Shia Muslims took out mourning processions or ‘tazias’, beat drums and thumped their chests grieving for Prophet Mohammed’s grandson Imam Hussain as they observed Muharram in Kolkata Monday.

Amid cries of “Ya Hussain”, hundreds of Muslims marched through the streets of Kolkata remembering his martyrdom on this day in Karbala in Iraq.

Three huge rallies from Rajabazar, Kidderpore, and Sealdah met at Beliaghata crossing in the north-eastern part of the city, as mourners whipped themselves, carried sticks and knives, observing the occasion.

Similar rallies were also brought out from Khidderpore, Metiaburz in West Kolkata and Prince Anwar Shah road in the southern part of the city.

Security was beefed up with senior police officers, including joint commissioner (headquarters) Javed Shamim, keeping a close watch to prevent any breach of peace.

There was intense police patrolling, particularly in the sensitive areas, with traffic restricted in parts of the city to enable the processions to pass unhindered.

Reports of Muharram processions have also been received from other parts of West Bengal.