Muharram (Peerla Panduga)

The first month of the Islamic calendar is Muharram. It is one of the four sacred months where fighting is forbidden. The term “Muharram” comes from the Arabic word “Haram,” which means forbidden. For Shia Muslims, the month carries special significance, highlighted by the observance of the period from the first of Muharram to the tenth day of the month, known as “Youm-e-Ashura,” during which Shia Muslims mourn the death of Imam Hussain and the martyrs who fell at Karbala. The observance of this mourning period was stretched out not only in the Golconda Kingdom but also throughout the Deccan. Events were held in mosques and houses to remember and mourn the deaths of those who fell in the Battle of Karbala.

In Telangana, Muharram is observed by both Hindus and Muslims. Badeshahi Ashurkhana in Hyderabad is a notable site for these observations and has a rich historical connection with Muharram traditions. The last day of Muharram sees a grand procession carrying the “Peerlu” (Alam relics) from Bibi Ka Alam to Chaderghat, with an elephant leading the way. Shia Muslims express their grief during this time with Matam, or self-inflicted wounds. Ashurkhanas, also called Iyambara, Barga, or Alava, are pilgrimage sites where Alams (battle standards) are installed to pay honor to Imam Hussain’s sacrifice.

Ramadan (Ramzan)
The ninth month of the Islamic calendar, Ramadan, is the most sacred time for Muslims. It is during this month that they observe their holiest traditions, such as fasting from dawn until dusk, engaging in intense levels of prayer, and giving to the poor and needy. The pre-dawn meal taken in preparation for the long fast ahead is called “Sahar,” while the meal taken after sunset at the end of the fast is known as “Iftar.” A unique dish prepared during Iftar in Hyderabad is Haleem, a kind of porridge with meat, wheat, and spices. The 27th night of Ramadan is called “Laylat-ul-Qadr (The Night of Power),” which signifies the night when the Holy Quran was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad.

Zakat and Charity
Every Muslim must make an obligatory charitable donation that is in accordance with their financial capacity. This type of charity is called Zakat. Another form of charity that is given to the poor before Eid is called “Fitr” (Fitra). Unlike Zakat, which can be given at any time, Fitr is given just before Eid so that the poor can also celebrate the holiday.

Bakrid (Eid-ul-Adha)

Bakrid, also called Eid-ul-Zuha, honors the sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim, who was ready to sacrifice his son as a sign of obedience to God. On this day, an animal is sacrificed in a ritual known as Qurbani (the offering immolated in a way that worshippers believe will secure God’s blessings). This meat is not just consumed in a family feast, which is customary for celebratory occasions; it is also shared with friends and those in need.

Milad-un-Nabi

The birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad is marked by Milad-un-Nabi, and it is celebrated with religious assemblies, prayers, and sermons that highlight the life and teachings of the Prophet.

Shab-e-Barat 

The 14th of Shaban marks Shab-e-Barat. It is a night of deep reverence for the Muslim community. On this night, they honor the graves of their loved ones. They pray (Fateha) under the open sky. And the first Sura of the Holy Quran is recited in unison.

Sufism and the Role of Sufi Saints

Sufism is a spiritual side of Islam that put the most emphasis on loving devotion to Allah. The doctrine called “Tawhid” (the oneness of Allah) was followed by Sufi saints. However, they treated all religions equally, and for that reason, Sufism appeals to many people in the world today. Moreover, because Sufi saints stayed away from politics, they became respected figures. Sufis influenced blended cultures, particularly in places like Hyderabad.

Urs (Urus)

A Dargah is a shrine built over the tomb of a Sufi saint.

The death anniversary of a Sufi saint is observed as “Urs,” where devotees gather at the shrine to seek blessings.