The New Nation - Internet Edition

UNB, Dhaka

The country will observe the holy Ashura on Sunday commemorating the martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Husein (RA), youngest grandson of Prophet Muhammad (SM), at the Battle of Karbala in 680 A.D.

The government has declared public holiday on the occasion holy Ashura.

The word Ashura simply means "tenth" in Arabic, and therefore the name of the remembrance, literally translated, means "the tenth day" of the month of Muharram.

On this day, Imam Husain (RA) along with most of his family members and followers embraced martyrdom at the hands of the soldiers of Yazid at Karbala (in the present day Iraq) while fighting to establish truth in society.

Different religious organisations and groups will observe the day to pay respect to the holy martyrs.

President Professor Dr. Iajuddin Ahmed gave a message on this occasion, terming Ashura as a significant day for the Muslims for establishing truth and justice among the Islamic Ummah.

"The message of holy Ashura inspires us to be vocal against injustice and oppression and to follow the path of truth and justice," the President said. He wished unity, solidarity and continued progress of the Muslim Ummah.