Weeping Lucknow – Muharram
Understanding the 68 days of mourning in Lucknow*
Muharram is the first month of the Islamic calendar and the most important month for Muslims after Ramzan (Ramadan). Instead of joyous celebration, Shia Muslims mark the beginning of the New Year with sorrow by participating in mournful gatherings – mourning the martyrdom of Imam Hussain, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, at the Battle of Karbala.
Other than Iran, India has the largest Shia population in the world, while Lucknow hosts the most in India, thus the observance of Muharram in Lucknow is the longest, most unique and beyond compare.
We take you on a curated tour of Lucknow’s Muhharam, where one experiences, how the city has maintained the legacy of this mourning custom from the Nawabi era till date and that too unchanged. Hindus too take part in these rituals with great reverence and devotion, making Muharram a unique feature in the socio-cultural fabric of Lucknow, presenting an unparalleled example of Hindu-Muslim unity in the city.
Cost : |
INR 10,000 per person (minimum 02 guests) – per day/per event as per calendar* |
Starting Time : |
1:30 pm (starts from Lucknow) |
Expected Duration : |
10-11 hours (minimum) |
Remarks : |
This tour is date specific and this too may change by a day as per Islamic lunar calendar. Ritualistically guests are required to wear simple black clothes in keeping with the tradition of mourning. Some of the rituals might not be very pleasing to eyes and better avoided by faint-hearted guests and children. Most of the events are crowded and involve a walk due to traffic congestion and security restrictions. |
Muharram Event Calendar*
|
Highlight Day & Event |
2021 |
2022 |
2023 |
2024 |
1st |
Shahi Zari ka Juloos |
10th Aug |
30th Jul |
19th Jul |
8th Jul |
From 2nd till 5th day there are no specific public programmes, except for daily congressions. This period is not recommended for inclusion as it may not be as visually exciting. |
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6th |
Aag ka Matam |
16th Aug |
4th Aug |
24th Jul |
13th Jul |
7th |
Janbe Qasim ka Mehndi ka Jullos |
17th Aug |
5th Aug |
25th Jul |
14th Jul |
8th |
Alam-e-Fateh-e-Furat |
18th Aug |
6th Aug |
26th Jul |
15th Jul |
9th |
Alam-e-Yadgar-e-Hussaini |
19th Aug |
7th Aug |
27th Jul |
16th Jul |
10th |
Jullos-e-Ashura |
20th Aug |
8th Aug |
28th Jul |
17th Jul |
From 11th till 49th day there are no specific public programmes, except for daily congressions. This period is not recommended for inclusion as it may not be as visually exciting. |
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50th |
Chehlum |
28th Sep |
17th Aug |
6th Aug |
26th Aug |
From 51st till 67th day there are no specific public programmes, except for daily congressions. This period is not recommended for inclusion as it may not be as visually exciting. |
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68th |
Chup Taziya |
16th Oct |
4th Sep |
24th Aug |
13th Sep |
*Dates subject to change as per moon sighting – only by one or two days, plus or minus.
- Inclusions
- Exclusions
An exclusive air-conditioned car for the tour.
Accompanying exclusive English speaking guide.
Orientation lecture by an expert/theologist.
Documentary show on the subject of Muharram.
Tea & refreshments.
Traditional Muharram Community Meal.
Any other food items on the tour, unless a part of offer.
Visit to any monuments in the city apart from (if) the venue to attend the event of the day.