Muharram

Muharram is considered as the opening month of the Hijra year in religion of Islam. The Muslims of Kerala venerate the 10th day of this month. This special 10th day is celebrated with great honor by the Shias and the Sunnies all over the world. According to Islamic belief, on this particular day the most tragic and bloody massacre occurred at Karbala in 680 AD when Imam Hussain, the grandson of Prophet Mohammed, and his family were killed ruthlessly by the evil Muslim ruler- Yazid . The Muslims observe Muharram to lament the martyrdom of Imam Hussain. Fasting is a significant ceremonial ritual of this festival.

In Kerala, Muharram is celebrated by performing the `Pulikali' or `Tiger-dance'. Some Muslims paint their entire body in black and yellow, put on masks of tiger-faces and try to act like a tiger. They march through the streets dancing, playing and imitating a tiger. This kind of performance is put up to idealize the valorousness of Hussain.

Taziyas which are the tombs of bamboo and paper made in replication of Hussain’s tomb are adorned with gilt and mica and are carried out in the streets of the cities. Huge processions follow these taziyas and the lamenters are seen beating their chests mourning and grieving over the slaying of Hussain. Dancers and wrestlers also act out scenes describing the battle at Kabala and shouting and crying dolefully at the top of their voice - "Hussain! Hussain!"! Some emotional devotees also hit themselves causing injuries and wounds on their bodies.

Meetings are held by some sects religious leaders give lectures on the gruesome occurrence of Karbala and the lives of the martyrs.

The devotees end their fast after the procession and give away apparels, money and food to the poor and the sick people.