Muḥarram:
Customs associated with mourning of Muharram:
Matam
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· It refers to the acts of lamentation for the martyrs of Karbala. · There are two basic forms of matam: o Matam using one's hands only, that is, sineh-zani or breast-beating o Matam with implements like chains, knives, swords and blades, that is, zanjeer-zani, qama-zani, etc. which involves flagellation for reenacting blood shedding of Hussein Ali. |
Taziya
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· It refers to the Miniature Mausoleums (imitations of the mausoleums of Karbala, generally made of coloured paper and bamboo) used in ritual processions. |
Alam
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· It consists of a coloured drape (usually black) on a wooden pole with an emblem on the top as a religious flag. · It is believed that it was carried by Ali during the battle of Karbala. |