Siwan district exemplifies Hindu-Muslim unity with world’s tallest Tazia
Mohammad Alamullah | Clarion India
NEW DELHI — The village of Bhikhapur in Bihar’s Siwan district stands as a beacon of Hindu-Muslim unity through its annual Muharram procession, featuring the world’s tallest Tazia. This 195-year-old tradition highlights the deep-rooted spirit of cooperation and mutual respect among the villagers.
Dr. S.M. Zahid, a local resident, stated: “Imam Hussain raised his voice against evil and sacrificed himself to uphold justice, humanity, and goodness. Through the Tazia, we convey that message — that good always prevails over evil and that honesty and truth should guide our paths.”
The Tazia-making process is a communal effort, with Hindu and Muslim artisans working together. Anjuman Abbasiya and Anjuman Rizvia, the organisations behind the Tazias, have started constructing an 80-foot Tazia known as Chhota Imambara and an 84-foot Tazia known as Bada Imambara. These grand structures are crafted using bamboo, rope, and paper, with no iron nails.
Syed Mohammad Rizvi, another local, said: “Before lifting the Tazia, we take out the Alam, symbolising Imam Hussain. The procession sees participants of all ages walking behind the Alam.”
Remarkably, many Hindu families in Bhikhapur also maintain and parade Tazias. Dr. Zahid mentioned, “Chunnilal and Munnilal, well-known Hindus of Chainpur Bazaar, have kept a Tazia for nearly 70 years after their prayers at the Bada Imambara were answered.”
On the tenth day of Muharram, the Tazias are paraded through the village, eventually reaching Karbala before sunset. Villagers, including those returning from different parts of the country and abroad, offer items such as batasha, laddu, malida, sherbet, khichdi roti, tilak, and coconut on the Tazia. This procession is a poignant reminder of the community’s dedication to Imam Hussain’s legacy.
Local experts recall that about 25 years ago, electrification efforts in the village faced resistance due to concerns that electric poles and wires would obstruct the Tazia procession. The electricity department assured the villagers that power supply would be halted and obstructive wires removed on the day of the procession, allowing electrification to proceed.
The harmonious celebration of Muharram in Bhikhapur and surrounding areas serves as a powerful message of peace, unity, and brotherhood. Dr. Zahid noted.
In Thepaha village, another part of Siwan district, the tradition continues with both Hindu and Muslim families participating in the Muharram procession. Lalan Chaudhary, a resident, said, “We also celebrate Muharram and take out a Tazia procession with Muslims. This old tradition showcases our village’s commitment to peace and unity.”
Doma Pasi of Mairwa block shared that his family has kept a Tazia for nearly 40 years, following a tradition started by his grandfather. “Keeping the Tazia brings happiness to our family throughout the year,” Pasi said, highlighting the enduring significance of this practice.
As Bhikhapur prepares for this year’s Muharram procession, the village stands as an inspiring example of how mutual respect and cooperation can bridge divides, fostering an environment where humanity and brotherhood flourish.
