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Across Borders, Bound by Grief — Muharram 1447




As the crescent moon of Muharram has descended upon Africa, communities from Antananarivo to Arusha, from Dar es Salaam to Dodoma, have entered into a sacred season of remembrance that transcends geography, language and culture. Muharram is not merely a date on the Islamic calendar; it is an awakening, a communal return to Karbala, and a reaffirmation of the values embodied by Imam Husain (‘A), the beloved grandson of Prophet Muhammad (SAWW). 


Muharram marks the beginning of the Islamic year, but unlike the festivities that accompany a new year elsewhere, the Shia Muslim world enters it with black attire, lowered voices and eyes brimming with remembrance. 


Over 1,400 years ago, Imam Husain (‘A), along with seventy-two family members and companions, stood against the oppressive forces of Yazid on the blistering sands of Karbala. Denied water, outnumbered and surrounded, they chose death over disgrace, truth over falsehood, justice over tyranny. Their sacrifice became the soul of Islam, a lesson in courage, justice and unyielding faith. This dignified stand against injustice and tyranny inspires hope in millions to this day. 


Across the region, Shia Muslim communities honour this legacy through Azadari, a sacred expression of grief and loyalty to Imam Husain (‘A). Majalis, marsiyas, matam, juloos and symbolic re-enactments allow generations to relive and reflect on the tragedy of Karbala. Through these acts, the pain of Ashura is kept alive, not as a historical event but as a living resistance against injustice in all forms.


The days of Muharram are deeply immersive. Jamaats mark this sacred time with majalis in Imambarghas and community centres, sessions for the youth, symbolic initiatives like the Karbala Project and reflective gatherings that engage hearts and minds of all ages. From the flag raising on the first night of Muharram to the recitations of marsiya and nawha, each moment is steeped in reverence. 


Across Africa, communities gather in solidarity through programs in various languages, juloos, exhibitions and more. These diverse expressions of Azadari echo one universal message: the legacy of Karbala speaks across cultures and continents, resonating with every soul that seeks justice and truth.


View Regional Azadari Across Jamaats: 


Antananarivo, Madagascar


Arusha


Dar es Salaam


Dar es Salaam Udowe


Dodoma


Kampala, Uganda


Kigali, Rwanda


Mombasa, Kenya


Morogoro


Mwanza


Nampula


SAAJ Nairobi


Saint Denis Jamaat, Reunion


Zanzibar Kuwwat Jamaat


Through these gatherings, whether in bustling cities or smaller towns, the story of Karbala is carried forward. Young and old, dressed in black, gather in the remembrance of the personalities of Karbala. From the gentle swish of “kaniki” (black cloth) being draped over mosques and mehfil walls to the solemn rhythm of marsia echoing down narrow streets, one begins to feel it: the unmistakable air of mourning. 


Yet, beyond the mourning lies meaning. Year after year, the tragedy is retold. But unlike personal grief, which fades with time, Karbala burns brighter. The pain remains fresh, not because it is inflicted, but because it is inherited. It connects generations, transcends languages, and touches the soul of every believer. 


As we commemorate this sacred month, may we strive to embody the timeless values of Karbala: justice, integrity, patience, unity and selflessness. Let our remembrance be reflected not only in words but in actions that honour the legacy of Imam Hussain (‘A) and his noble companions. 


As Josh Malihabadi (a Pakistani Poet of Urdu) wrote:


“Insaan ko bedaar to ho lene do, har qaum pukaraygi hamare hain Hussain”

(Let humanity awaken and every tribe will claim Hussain as their own.)

 

SECRETARIAT

AFRICA FEDERATION ARCHIVES SECTION


Date: 4th July 2025 / 8th Muharram 1447 AH

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