Muharram is the first month of the Islamic calendar. Muharram is so called because it is unlawful to fight during this month, the word is derived from the word haraam meaning "forbidden". It is held to be the most sacred of all the months, . Some Muslims Fast during these days. The tenth day of Muharram is called Yawmu-l 'Ashurah, which is known by Shia Muslims as 'the day of grief'.
The festival commemorates the martyrdom of the Prophet Mohammed's grandson- Hazrat Imam Hussein. It is celebrated with great fervor by the Muslims especially the Shia community. Tazias, glittering replicas of the Martyr's tomb, are carried in procession through the streets. The Tazias of Lucknow and Hyderabad are noted for their splendor. In places like Lucknow, Delhi, Agra and Jaipur, grand scale processions are held. People beat their chest in mourning to the tune of beating drums and chants 'Ya Hussain'. Devotees beat themselves and inflict wounds on their own bodies.
This festival starts at the 1st day of Muharram and lasts for 10 days until 10th of Muharram. Muharram is the first month of Islamic calendar. During this month, while on a journey, Hazrat Imam Hussain, his family members and a number of his followers were surrounded by the forces of Yazid, the Muslim ruler of the time. During the siege, they were deprived of food and water and many of them were put to death. The incident happened at a place called Karbala in Iraq in 61st year after Hijra. This dispute was result of a disagreement among Muslims on the question of succession after the demise of Hazrat Ali, the fourth caliph. During these first ten days of Muharram, drinking posts are also set up temporarily by the Shia community where water and juices are served to all, free of charge.
