Ashura 2024: Significance and Iftar timings in major Indian cities

Ashura 2024: Significance and Iftar timings in major Indian cities

Mumbai: Ashura, observed on the 10th day of Muharram, will begin on the evening of Tuesday, July 16, 2024, and will be celebrated on Wednesday, July 17, 2024. Muharram, the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is of great significance to Muslims globally as it marks the Islamic New Year and is one of the four sacred months in Islam. Muharram 2024 is notably important due to the inclusion of Ashura 2024, a day with deep historical and religious meaning.

Many Muslims partake in mourning activities such as wearing black, reciting elegies, and reflecting on the events of Karbala. Mourning ceremonies, known as Majlis, are conducted where the stories of Imam Hussain’s sacrifice are recounted.

What is Ashura?

Ashura holds profound significance in Islam, particularly for Shia Muslims. It marks the martyrdom of Imam Hussain at the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE, symbolising the struggle against tyranny and injustice.

Significance of Ashura fasting

Imam Hussain’s stand for righteousness against the oppressive regime of Yazid is a powerful narrative highlighting themes of sacrifice, moral integrity, and faith.

For Sunni Muslims, Ashura is also significant as it commemorates the day Moses and the Israelites were saved from Pharaoh’s tyranny, a narrative present in both the Hebrew Bible and the Quran.

Ashura Iftar timings across major Indian cities

Iftar time today in Mumbai

Today, July 16, 2024, the Iftar time is 7:21 pm, corresponding to the 9th of Muharram 1446 in the Islamic calendar.

Iftar time today in Delhi

Today, July 16, 2024, in New Delhi, the Iftar time is 7:22 pm.

Iftar time today in Pune

Today, July 16 2024, the Iftar time is 7:16 pm in Pune.

Iftar time today in Hyderabad

Today, July 16, 2024, the Iftar time in Hyderabad is 6:55 pm.

Iftar time today in Ahmedabad

Today, July 16, 2024, the Iftar time in Ahmedabad is 7:29 pm.

Iftar time today in Lucknow

Today, July 16, 2024, the Iftar time in Lucknow is 7:04 pm.

Iftar duas for Ashura

“O Allah! I fasted for You and I believe in You and I put my trust in You and with Your sustenance, I break my fast.”
“O Allah, Lord of the Great Light, Lord of the High Throne, Lord of the Flooded Sea, Revealer of the Torah, the Gospel, and the Psalms, Lord of the Shade and the Heat, Revealer of the Great Quran, Lord of the Angels close to You, the Prophets, and the Messengers, O Allah, I ask You by Your Glorious Face and by the Light of Your Face that illuminates the heavens and the earth, and by Your Eternal Dominion, O Living, O Sustainer, I ask You by Your Name by which the heavens and the earth shine, and by Your Name by which the first and the last are improved, O Living One before every living thing, O Living One after every living thing, O Living One, there is no God but You, bless Muhammad and the family of Muhammad, forgive my sins, accept my fasting, my prayers, my supplications, and all my actions, relieve my distress, remove my grief, and improve my situation, You are capable of everything.”

While fasting on Ashura is not obligatory, many choose to do so to reflect on the struggles of Imam Hussain and other prophets. Sunni Muslims often fast on the 9th and 10th of Muharram, whereas Shia Muslims may fast on Ashura itself.

Processions in regions such as South Asia and the Middle East are organised to commemorate Imam Hussain’s martyrdom. Participants may engage in self-flagellation or other forms of symbolic mourning.

Acts of charity, including distributing food and money to the needy, are common during Muharram, emphasising compassion and community spirit.

 Ashura 2024 falls on July 17, marking a day of profound historical and religious significance in Islam. This special day commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussain at the Battle of Karbala. Learn about the importance of Ashura, the rituals observed, essential duas, and Iftar timings to honour this sacred day.  Events Lifestyle News -Fashion Trends, Beauty Tips, Celebrity Party News, Relationship advice, Travel and Food Tips