Why is hosein celebrated

But there are also those who believe that the occasion should be a more sombre remembrance of the martydom of Hussein.

These Muslims believe local customs should be more in line with global commemorations like those in Iraq or India. What I saw in the festival was an assertion of both the Indian and Trinidadian identity.

For Shiite Muslims, who have dealt with oppression and ostracism — both in the past and in the present — it is a means of claiming their space as a minority in Trinidadian culture and resisting being pushed to the margins. At the same time, with its carnival-like feel, the festival could not be more Trinidadian. Indeed, the celebrations each year illustrate how Indian and Trinidadian rituals and material culture merged to create a unique festival.

Ken Chitwood , Ph. This article first appeared on The Conversation. This is because it is Islamic custom for the interment of the dead to be done before the sun goes down. Throughout the day the tadjahs merge into a chain of beautiful pageantry paired with the ceremonial drumming of the tassa. The tadjahs are taken to a sacred spot for prayers and offerings. After this rite, the tadjahs are then submerged into the sea or body of water.

The practice is not strictly Muslim; it is related to the Hindu ritual of drowning the model of deities in water. The vibrant procession held in St.

James, a suburb of Port of Spain, is the largest observance and some of the more spectacularly decorated tadjahs may be seen here. Dates for upcoming years , , The parade draws thousands of spectators of all religions every year. Participation does not depend on religion, creed or race.

No matter where you choose to view this festival, please remember that because of its religious significance, alcohol is not encouraged. Hosay St. In St. James the processions come out at approximately p. On the ninth night, the big tadjahs, representing the tombs, are out on the street in St. James in all their splendour and glory. In Trinidad on Ashura , the tadjahs are on the streets at approximately The parade route in St.

James is a clearly identified with specific routes taken by each tadjah to join the overall street procession in a prearranged processional format. On Ashura it is from a. Other Islamic websites have published articles espousing similar views.

Hosein has been banned from speaking by Muslim groups after giving a speech at Mucurapo Mosque. Women accused of supporting Al-Qaeda also received a package from him, according to court papers. How is the Hosay celebrated?

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