Puducherry Schools Closed on July 17 for Muharram
The Directorate of School Education in Puducherry has announced that all schools will be closed on Wednesday, July 17, to observe Muharram.
Muharram is a significant religious event for Shia Muslims. In India, the 7-8 crore Shia Muslim community, along with people of different religions, participate in large processions and tazias.
Earlier in June, the All India Shia Personal Law Board wrote a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging him to ensure better arrangements for the upcoming Muharram procession. The board requested the Prime Minister to ensure security arrangements on the routes determined by the state governments to prevent any disturbances to law and order.
Doubts Revealed
Puducherry -: Puducherry is a small region in India, which used to be a French colony. It is known for its beautiful beaches and French-style buildings.
Muharram -: Muharram is a special month for Muslims, especially Shia Muslims. It marks the beginning of the Islamic New Year and includes a day of mourning for the martyrdom of Imam Hussain, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad.
Directorate of School Education -: The Directorate of School Education is a government department that manages schools and education policies in a region. In this case, it is the department in Puducherry.
Shia Muslims -: Shia Muslims are a group within the Muslim community. They have some different religious practices and beliefs compared to Sunni Muslims, another major group in Islam.
Processions -: Processions are organized walks or parades where people come together to celebrate or remember an event. During Muharram, Shia Muslims hold processions to remember Imam Hussain.
Tazias -: Tazias are models or replicas of the tomb of Imam Hussain. They are carried in processions during Muharram as a part of the mourning rituals.
All India Shia Personal Law Board -: The All India Shia Personal Law Board is an organization that represents the interests of Shia Muslims in India. They work on issues related to Shia laws and practices.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi -: Narendra Modi is the current Prime Minister of India. He is the head of the government and makes important decisions for the country.