Thailand: Shia Muslims Gear Up for Muharram Mourning Ceremonies

As the holy month of Muharram approaches, Shia Muslims in Thailand are gearing up for the annual mourning rituals commemorating the martyrdom of Imam al-Hussein, peace be upon him, Iqna news reported on Tuesday.

Husseiniyyas and mosques across cities like Bangkok, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Trang, Satun, and Phatthalung have been prepared to host the ceremonies, the source mentioned.

The Wilayat Husseiniyya of the Iranian Cultural Center in Bangkok will also organize mourning events attended by Iranians, Thai Muslims, and people of other nationalities. These rituals will be held every night at 8:30 PM local time starting from the third day of Muharram, which falls on July 7 this year.

Shia Muslims worldwide observe Muharram to mourn the tragic martyrdom of the Master of the Martyrs and his companions in the Battle of Karbala. Thailand, with a Muslim population of around 5%, is no exception to this solemn tradition.