Latest news with #ShiaMuslims
Time of India
3 days ago
- General
- Time of India
Muharram mourning resonates in some Hindu followers too
Lucknow: Number of public processions has reduced as Muharram progresses, compared to the first 10 days of this first month of the Islamic calendar. Azadari inside homes, however, continues. Interestingly, alongside Shia Muslims, numerous non-Muslims observe Azadari in their homes from the first day of Muharram to the 8th of Rabi-ul-Awwal, which is third month of the Islamic calendar. Azadari refers to the mourning rituals and commemoration observed by the Shia, particularly during Muharram, to mourn the martyrdom of Imam Hussein and his 70 companions in the Battle of Karbala. Among those who deeply connect with this tradition is resident of Baba ka Purwa Khadra, Sitapur road, Sooraj Gupta (36), who represents second generation of a family that follows the Azadari ritual. Facing medical challenges, his mother, late Nisha Gupta, had prayed to Hazrat Imam Hussain for a child. Her prayers were answered when Sooraj was born on May 15, 1989. Since then, the family has maintained the tradition of keeping a taziya at home and Sooraj continues the tradition devotedly. Apart from performing matam, Sooraj also sets up a sabeel (free refreshment stall) near Kazmain Imambara during Muharram. Speaking to TOI, he said, "Even today, if I need anything, I seek it from Hazrat Maula Abbas." by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Better hearing starts here Amplifon Book Now Undo His wife joins him in Azadari and he hopes to pass on the tradition to his son. Following tradition that began with his grandfather, Ankit Kumar Bharti (32), resident of Pareganj Gallamandi, performs 'maatam' and attends Majlis-e-Imam Hussain. In 2008, his parents Mahesh Bharti and Radha Bharti renovated the imambara built by his grandfather, Jannat e Panchatan Babul Hawaej, near their home. Ankit's grandfather founded Anjuman named Hind-Abbasiya, keeping alive the message of Karbala in their family. Ankit said, "I teach Hazrat Imam Hussain's invaluable message to the next generation to understand true meaning of relations." Ankit's father Mahesh Bharti attempted to travel abroad for work but his visa applications were always rejected. Iraq, however, granted him visa, despite its ongoing war with Iran, so he went to Iraq and worked at Babylon Hotel. His visits to Karbala and Roza of Hazrat Imam Hussain deepened the family's bond with the legacy. Another azadar Rajesh Bhangra, resident of Alambagh, said he had been participating in Azadari for 50 years and believed his wishes were fulfilled through this devotion.
Time Business News
3 days ago
- Time Business News
Guided Holy Site Visits in Makkah
Let's be real—life gets busy. Sometimes, we forget the bigger picture and the deeper purpose behind our existence. That's where a Ziyarah tour comes in. It's not just a trip; it's a soulful journey to sacred Islamic sites that hold deep religious and historical significance. Whether you're seeking spiritual clarity, reconnecting with your roots, or paying respects to revered figures in Islam—Ziyarah is your calling. 🕌 Why Do People Go on Ziyarah? People embark on Ziyarah for a number of reasons: To deepen their spiritual connection To pray at the tombs of prophets, Imams, and pious scholars To seek blessings (barakah) For many, it's a way to renew their faith, especially when life starts to feel empty or chaotic. 📜 Historical Roots of ZiyarahZiyarah in Islam The word Ziyarah means 'visit' in Arabic. In Islamic tradition, it refers specifically to visiting holy places, especially graves of prophets and saints. Importance in Sunni and Shia Traditions While both Sunni and Shia Muslims value Ziyarah, the practices vary slightly: Shia Muslims give significant importance to visiting the shrines of the Ahl al-Bayt (the Prophet's family), especially in cities like Karbala and Najaf. Sunni Muslims often emphasize Ziyarah to the Prophet Muhammad's grave in Madinah and righteous companions of the Prophet. 🌍 Popular Ziyarah DestinationsMakkah and Madinah Even though Hajj and Umrah have their own rituals, many include Ziyarah in Madinah—visiting the Prophet Muhammad's tomb, Masjid al-Nabawi, and the graveyards of Uhud martyrs. Karbala and Najaf In Iraq, you'll find Karbala, home to the shrine of Imam Hussain (RA), and Najaf, where Imam Ali (RA) rests. These cities see millions of visitors, especially during Arbaeen. Mashhad, Iran Home to the shrine of Imam Reza (RA), this city attracts millions yearly. It's serene, beautiful, and spiritually charged. Jerusalem (Al-Quds) Visiting Masjid Al-Aqsa is a spiritual must. It's the third holiest site in Islam, and the sense of reverence in its compound is undeniable. Other Notable Shrines Damascus: Shrine of Sayyida Zainab Cairo: Al-Hussein Mosque Istanbul: Eyüp Sultan Mosque 🧘♂️ Spiritual Benefits of ZiyarahInner Peace and Reflection Ever felt like your soul is just… tired? A Ziyarah trip offers the perfect reset. The atmosphere, the prayers, the history—it grounds you. Reconnecting with Faith Being at a site where prophets walked or where martyrs rest—it's a powerful reminder of your faith and purpose. Seeking Blessings and Forgiveness Many believe Ziyarah opens doors to duas being accepted. It's a humbling moment to seek forgiveness and start fresh. 📅 Planning Your Ziyarah TourChoosing a Tour Operator Look for: Well-reviewed Islamic travel agencies Guides who are knowledgeable in Islamic history Package options that suit your needs and schedule Cost and Budgeting Tips Book in off-season months for better prices Always check what's included—flights, hotels, meals, etc. Keep a buffer for unexpected expenses What to Pack and Prepare Modest clothing Prayer items (mat, tasbih, Quran) Medication and first-aid Notepad for journaling reflections 🚶♂️ What to Expect During ZiyarahAccommodation and Travel Expect: Shared accommodations near shrines Long travel times between cities Simple meals, mostly local cuisines Guided Tours and Religious Talks Most groups offer: Lectures from scholars Group prayers and supplications Cultural insight into local traditions Cultural Etiquette and Dress Code Modesty is key Follow local customs Avoid loud or disrespectful behavior at sites ⚠️ Challenges You Might FaceHealth and Safety Stay hydrated Wear comfortable shoes Keep important medications handy Language Barriers Arabic, Farsi, or Turkish may be spoken in different regions—a translation app or guide helps a ton. Crowd Management in Pilgrimage Sites Holy sites get crowded, especially during events like Ashura or Ramadan. Be patient and stick with your group. 💡 Tips for a Meaningful ZiyarahBe Mentally and Spiritually Prepared Don't just pack bags—prepare your heart. Read up on the history, make a list of duas, and be ready for emotional moments. Respect Local Customs From food to prayer styles, you'll see differences. Embrace them. It's all part of the journey. Keep a Spiritual Journal Write daily reflections. Years later, you'll read back and relive the transformation. 🧾 Conclusion A Ziyarah tour is so much more than a vacation. It's a journey to the heart of your faith—a spiritual cleanse, a reset button for your soul, and a chance to connect with centuries of Islamic history. Whether you're visiting Karbala, Madinah, or Mashhad, each stop brings a profound sense of belonging and purpose. So if your soul is calling out for peace, maybe it's time you answered with a Ziyarah. ❓FAQs What's the best time to go for Ziyarah? It depends on the location. Off-peak months like January–March or September are ideal to avoid crowds and high prices. Can women go for Ziyarah alone? Yes, but it's safer and more enriching when done in groups or with a family. Always check local guidelines. Is it okay to take children? Absolutely! It can be a beautiful learning experience, but make sure they are mentally and physically prepared. Are Ziyarah tours safe? Generally, yes—especially when going with experienced tour groups. Still, stay informed about local conditions. How long should a Ziyarah trip be? Anywhere from 7 to 14 days is ideal to truly absorb the experience without feeling rushed. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
India Today
6 days ago
- Politics
- India Today
Pakistan to ban Shias from travelling solo to Iraq
Pakistan is set to ban solo travel by persecuted Shia Muslims to Iraq for religious pilgrimages, starting January 1, 2026. The move, announced by Pakistani Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, came after meetings with his counterparts from Iran and Iraq. Thousands of Pakistani Shia travel annually to Iraq and Iran for religious pilgrimages, with many overstaying their the new policy specifically targets solo travel to Iraq, the move is likely to impact a significant number of pilgrims who visit Iraq's holy sites, which drew 21.5 million visitors annually in 2024, including many who first complete their pilgrimage in Iran before continuing onward to Iraq has a significant chunk of Shias in its population, Iran is a Shia powerhouse. In Sunni-majority Pakistan, Shias face sectarian discrimination and violence. The Shias of debt-ridden Pakistan are the world's second-largest Shia community after that of Iran, comprising only 10-15 percent of the Islamic Republic's population, but face significant challenges including sectarian violence, discrimination, and political disenfranchisement. Some also flee because of lack of economic opportunities or fragile security TRAVEL MANDATORY FOR PAK SHIA PILGRIMS HEADING TO IRAQThe policy shift would mandate that Pakistani Shia pilgrims, referred to as "zaireen", travel to Iraq only under the supervision of registered group organisers, reported Riyadh-based daily, Arab News."From January 1, 2026, we will not be allowing any Pakistani to leave for Iraq without the zaireen [pilgrims] group organiser, which means that we will register people who will be allowed to take the groups to Iraq," Naqvi said."The new group-based travel system aims to curb illegal entries and extended stays," Naqvi added, revealing that Iraq and Iran have fully endorsed the new organisers of the tours will now be responsible for ensuring all pilgrims return, addressing concerns about illegal those granted special visas by the Iraqi embassy will be exempt from this requirement, reported the Karachi-based PAK PILGRIMS TAKE UP ILLEGAL WORK, STAY BEYOND VISA TERMS IN IRAQThe decision to bar Shia Muslims from travelling to Iraq alone stems from Pakistan's efforts to address the issue of pilgrims overstaying their visas in Iraq, which has at times strained diplomatic relations and affected Pakistan's reputation."The people who are overstaying there, the people who have started working there, we need to stop this," Naqvi said, calling for cooperation from Iran and Iraq to enforce the new of Pakistani Shia Muslims travel annually to Iraq and Iran to visit sacred sites, such as those in Najaf and Karbala, particularly during the 40-day-long pilgrims reportedly remain in Iraq illegally and refrain from going back. Some take up unauthorised work and keep living ABUSE BY PAKISTANIS ON RISE, EVEN AIRLINE CREW DISAPPEARED IN CANADAadvertisementIllegal migration from debt-ridden Pakistan is not confined to economically distressed neighbours or culturally close countries like Iraq and Iran, but extends even to affluent nations such as Saudi Arabia, a traditional destination for Pakistani migrants, has repeatedly raised alarms over Pakistani nationals overstaying visas and engaging in unauthorised activities, including begging. In December 2024, Saudi Arabia deported 4,700 Pakistani beggars in one April 2025, Saudi Arabia imposed a temporary visa ban on 14 countries, including Pakistan, to curb unauthorised Hajj participation and overstays. In May, Saudi Arabia deported 5,033 Pakistani beggars, reported the Pakistani English daily, issue of illegal migration out of Pakistan extends beyond the Middle East. Even in countries like Canada, Pakistani nationals, including seemingly well-placed individuals, have been involved in visa violations. In 2024, several Pakistani airline crew members disappeared after arriving in move follows repeated concerns from Iraq, Iran, and other host countries like Saudi Arabia, where Pakistani nationals have entered on valid visas but overstayed and engaged in unauthorised economic activities.- Ends
India.com
14-07-2025
- General
- India.com
Lost Legends & Forgotten Royals: The Untold Story Behind Hyderabad's Name
Hyderabad, which serves as the capital city of Telangana state in India, is a bustling city well known for its heritage, history, and technology. It is also known as the 'City of Nizams' which explains why it is a blend of modernity and antiquity at the same time. But do you know how this magnificent city came to be known as 'Hyderabad'? The etymology of the name is a mixture of romance, myth, and history which is equally spellbinding as the city is. Story of Bhagmati with the Sultan Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah The person whom Hyderabad is associated with, Sultan Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah, was the fifth ruler of the Qutb Shahi dynasty. The name of the city is said to have derived from this Sultan's story. Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah built Hyderabad in the year 1591 in order to accommodate the overflow of people and the lack of water in the fortified city of Golconda, which was the capital of the Qutb Shahi kingdom. Legend has it that this city was named after a pearl of a maiden named Bhagmati whom the Sultan was deeply fond of. Bhagmati was a local Hindu girl, and her bond with the Sultan represented the peaceful blending of Hindu and Muslim traditions in the area. As the story goes, Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah was so captivated by Bhagmati that when they wedded, he named the city 'Bhaganagar' in herename. Gradually, and after her conversion to Islam, she assumed the name 'Hyder Mahal,' which also meant that the city got the name 'Hyderabad' meaning 'the city of Hyder.' The word Hyder itself means 'lion' in Arabic which represents courage and valour. This tale, while common, has its discrepancies. Some historians believe that the title Hyder was associated with Ali, the fourth Caliph of Islam revered by Shia Muslims and the name was used as cover for him. The Qutb Shahi dynasty being Shia Muslims cherished Ali, thus suggesting that the city was named after him. Founding of Hyderabad Hyderabad was the brainchild of Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah. He wanted the city to be a wonder of a city, with a unique road-and-street layout, professional style buildings and effective drainage and water supply facilities. The unrivaled symbol of the city, Charminar, a massive gate with 4 towers on its 4 corners, was erected in the central part of the city and is one of the sites that people associate with Hyderabad. It was a monumental building of the city and a memorial of the great Sultan's affection for Bhagmati, for it was claimed that she met her beloved Sultan at that particular site. Hyderabad developed into a well known trade, culture, and education center and quickly grew in importance. Its location on the Deccan Plateau made it a central point for trade which brought merchants from all over the globe. The city became known as a 'City of Pears' as it became famous for its pearls and diamonds along with its textiles. Influence of the Nizams During the late 17th century, after the fall of the Qutb Shahi Dynasty, the Mughal Empire took rule over Hyderabad. This city reached its peak during the time of the Nizams who were Mughal governors. In 1724, the Nizam Ali Khans proclaimed independence and started the Asaf Jahi dynasty until India received independence in 1947. Hyderabad instantly developed into one of the richest and prosperous districts under the Nizams dynasty. Although the name Hyderabad remained the same, the city developed and blended into a mix of various arts, cultures, languages, and traditions. Even today, the palaces, mosques, and other institutions in the city exhibit the legacy of the Nizams and their great encouragement towards art, education, and architecture. Today At present, Hyderabad is a modern city infused with technology and history. This region houses an ever-growing IT sector which has earned the city the title of 'Cyberabad'. The city is well known for its exquisite dishes like the world's renowned Hyderabadi Biryani, as well as for its colorful festivals like the famous Bonalu and annual Bathukamma celebrations. No matter the context, the name 'Hyderabad' never fails to ignite a sense of unity and self-identity in its people. Be it from a traditional romantic folklore or a revered individual, the city's name speaks volumes towards its cultural mix and historical roots. Hyderabad still preserves the legacies of the Qutb Shahi dynasty, the Nizams, and countless other contributors to the city's growth. Conclusion The tale of how Hyderabad got its name blends history, romance and legend. Whether it was the admiration for Ali or the love that Sultan Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah had for Bhagmati, 'Hyderabad' has always been associated with the city's identity. As Hyderabad continues to expand, its name reminds us of the city's past and the potential it has for the future. The history of Hyderabad is captivating and is a strong representation of love, culture, and vision, making it one of the most wonderful places in India.
New Indian Express
13-07-2025
- Politics
- New Indian Express
Amalgam of Muslim bodies in J&K calls for boycott of Shia leader Imran Ansari over his 'provocative statements'
SRINAGAR: Muttahida Majlis-e-Ulama (MMU), an amalgam of various religious bodies and scholars of both Sunni and Shia Muslims in Jammu and Kashmir, on Sunday called for legal action and community boycott of influential Shia leader and former minister Imran Reza Ansari for allegedly making 'provocative' statements. 'MMU wishes to place on record its deep anguish and strong condemnation of continued and deliberate provocations by Imran Ansari. Previously, the MMU had refrained from naming the individual hoping that he would correct his malicious intent. However, instead of rectifying, Ansari has now publicly resorted to openly abusing and disrespecting the revered companions of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). 'This behaviour is absolutely unacceptable and a direct attack on the foundations of Islamic unity, ethics, and mutual respect and will not be tolerated,' said a spokesman of MMU. The MMU said Ansari's remarks are not a matter of 'difference of opinion, but a deliberate and malicious attempt to incite sectarian strife in Kashmir - an act that threatens the harmony and unity that generations of scholars and spiritual leaders have preserved through mutual respect, restraint and dialogue.' The spokesman said MMU notes that Shia scholars too are deeply disturbed by the provocative statement of Ansari and have unequivocally distanced themselves from his statements and affirmed that such speech has no place in the teachings of Islam.
