Bihar: How Hindu Families In Fatehpur Block Are Custodians Of Muharram Traditions

Himanshu Gautam, Fatehpur (Gaya): In the Fatehpur block, Moharram has emerged as more than just a religious occasion; people here celebrate regardless of their religious background and celebrate the festival every year. Nearly 60 villages across the area celebrate the festival as a symbol of brotherhood and social harmony. Villages including Gadhiyatand, Jehlibigha, Bahera, Morve, Mataso, Kodiya, Bhagwanpur, Khajuri, Kendua, Raksi, Satniya, Kewal, Salaiyakhurd, Rajabigha, Pateya, Pakaria, Jaspur, and Meyari, with predominantly Hindu families, construct taziyas and celebrate the Muslim occasion.

In many places, Maulvis are invited for Fatiha and other religious rituals in the Imambaras built by the ancestors. 103 societies in the block applied for licenses for Muharram. Last year, there were 106. Of the 106 licenses, approximately 60 were issued to Hindu families and societies.

What Do Residents Say?

Naresh Pandit, a resident of Patiya village, said that while no Muslim families live in his village, the tradition of celebrating Muharram has been continuing for generations. He said that during the time of his ancestors, when the family faced a crisis, a vow was made at the Imambara, and since the crisis was resolved, the family has been celebrating Muharram since then.

Meanwhile, Rohan Rajvanshi, a resident of Gadhiyatand, explained that the tradition started by his ancestors is still being followed with devotion by the villagers. He said that from the construction of the Tazia to the procession, all the villagers work together to make the event a success.

Why Do People Celebrate Moharram?

Muharram is the first month of the Islamic calendar and marks the Islamic New Year. Rather than a festive celebration, it is a deeply spiritual and solemn period observed as a time of mourning, reflection, and fasting.

For Shia Muslims, the first ten days of Muharram—culminating on the Day of Ashura—are a period of intense mourning. This commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussein (the grandson of Prophet Muhammad) and his loyal companions in the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. Observances include wearing black, fasting, reciting elegies, and taking out solemn processions.

Sunni Muslims also hold the month in high reverence. For them, the 10th of Muharram (Ashura) is historically celebrated to commemorate the day Allah saved Prophet Musa (Moses) and the Israelites from the Pharaoh. It is commonly observed through voluntary fasting and acts of gratitude.