Muharram Day of Ashura 2020: Date and everything you need to know about it

Muharram Day of Ashura 2020 date and significance  

Muharram is not only the first month of the Islamic calendar but also one of the most sacred periods for Muslims across the globe. It was during this period that Prophet Muhammed began his journey from Mecca to Medina. And the tenth day of the month is referred to as the day of Ashura. Read on to know the 2020 Ashura date and the significance.

Muharram 2020 day of Ashura date

Muharram day of Ashura 2020 is expected to take place on August 29 or August 30 as the exact date is derived based on the Moon and the location.

Muharram 2020 day of Ashura significance

The term Muharram means 'forbidden or prohibited'. The different denominations of the Muslim community observe the tenth day of Muharram as per their beliefs. The Sunni Muslims observe a fast because Prophet Muhammed fasted on this day. It is believed that Allah saved the people of Israel from Pharaoh and that Prophet Musa (Moses, according to Judaism) observed a fast on that day. Muslims recite verses from the Holy Quran and offer their prayers. 

The Shia Muslims take part in a procession and carry a Tazia (replica of the sacred tomb) of Imam Hussain (Husayn ibn Ali, the grandson of Prophet Muhammed) on this day. It is a period of mourning for them because Husayn ibn Ali was beheaded in the battle of Karbala (a place in modern-day Iraq). 

Shia Muslims recall the agony that the Imam went through. They narrate the incident that took place centuries ago to teach their young ones about their great leader who was killed. 

People gather in large numbers and the followers of the Imam chant "Ya Hussain" or "Ya Ali". They pay obeisance to the Imam by beating themselves with sharp weapons, and this ritual is known as Tatbir or Qama Zani. 

This year, the processions may not take place owing to the coronavirus pandemic.