Belagavi
The festival of Muharram, commemorating the sacrifice and memory of Islam’s founder Muhammad Prophet’s grandsons, Hassan and Hussain, was observed with reverence across the district, including the city. Despite Jakkanayakanakoppa village in Bailahongala taluk having only one Muslim family, the entire community came together to mark the occasion, sending a message of spirituality to society.
Muharram holds significance beyond the Muslim community; it is celebrated in a secular manner. Devotees observed rituals such as carrying panjas and coffins and leaping over fire, demonstrating their devotion even amidst rainfall.
Prakash Bhavikatti, village head, mentioned that Muharram has been celebrated in the same traditional manner since ancestral times. There is strong belief among the villagers that prayers are answered by God. Residents from neighboring towns also joined in large numbers to participate in the festivities.
In various parts of the city, including Khanjar Galli, Darbargalli, Gandhinagar, Topigalli, and Ravivarpet, processions featuring panjas and coffins converged at Darbar Galli on the festival’s tenth day, Wednesday morning. Thousands of onlookers gathered along the roadsides to witness this remarkable display of unity.
Throughout the district, traditional dances like Chinakolu Kunita and performers dressed as tigers added to the festive atmosphere. The panjas and coffins were ceremonially immersed after the processions, concluding the communal celebration of Muharram with full devotion.
