The Islamic New Year begins with the month of Muharram. However, this is no merry-making holiday. Muharram is considered one of the holiest months, second only to Ramadan. Muslim communities across the world experience Muharram differently, though Shias tend to emphasize the martyrdom of Husayn during this month.
In Chittagong, Sunni and Shia customs mixed together to form a unique Muharram celebration. Most people fast the first ten days of Muharram, called the Nights of Ashura. Throughout these ten days, stories of Ali and Husayn are told by the elderly and special prayers are held for their departed souls. On the tenth day, tazia processions are held in the city center, while 'manzils' are held in different localities. On the tenth night, family and friends gather for a large family dinner and more stories about the martyrdom at Karbala.
Above: I was in Kolkata for Muharram this year. I lived near a largely Muslim locality, where drums and chants were heard everywhere. Here, the guys are playing with fire ... I still don't know what his has to do with Muharram.
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