PNS|Vijayawada
The Muslim community, primarily Shia individuals, gathered in large numbers to observe Yom Ashura, commonly known as Muharram, at the Koneru Centre in Machilipatnam, Krishna district on Saturday. The solemn occasion featured a self-flagellation programme, during which participants, dressed in black attire, engaged in chest-beating. Notably, the Shia community in Machilipatnam comprises two groups: Chinna party and Pedda party, both of whom observed Muharram.
Telugu Desam (TD) leaders and supporters, led by former minister Kollu Ravindra, as well as YSR Congress (YSRC) leaders and activists, led by YSRC youth leader Perni Krishnamurthy (Kittu), also took part in the self-flagellation program. During the event, they paid tribute to Hussain and others who sacrificed their lives in the Battle of Karbala. Ravindra emphasised that chest-beating is a traditional practice in Bandar, with people of all faiths participating in the programme. Kittu, too, joined the Muslims in self-flagellation for a brief period. Both TD and YSRC leaders also distributed lime juice and buttermilk to the public at the Koneru Center.
Two Shia groups conducted ‘Maatham’ processions through the streets of Machilipatnam to commemorate the sacrifice of Hussain, the grandson of Prophet Mohammad, and his companions in the battle of Karbala in Iraq.
Shia community elders explained that the observance of Youm Ashura dates back to the time of the Moghuls and continued during British rule, with the present generations keeping the tradition alive. They pointed out that the practice of chest-beating during Muharram
self-flagellation is unique to Hyderabad in Telangana State and Machilipatnam in Andhra Pradesh (AP) State, where it is conducted as a mass program. Shia community members from various parts of AP State participated in the Maatam procession and the Chest beating program. A meeting was held later to remember the sacrifices of Hussain and his companions, during which a Dua (prayer) was performed. Leaders from the ruling YSR Congress, Opposition Telugu Desam, Congress, and Jana Sena parties also actively participated in the processions, paying their respects to Hussain and his companions.
Meanwhile, special prayers and gatherings took place at various Mosques in Vijayawada and Guntur cities. In Vijayawada, a Muharram procession was held at Punja center, attracting a large number of Muslim participants.
