The Ta’ziyeh: Sacred Act of Muslims in India and Iran

Abstract

The annual commemorations of Imam Hussein and his companions, who have tragically died in Karbala in 680, are an important part of the religious life of Shia Muslims around the globe. In various regions complex rituals have emerged aiming at collective reproduction and recreation of the events of Karbala. The word Taʻziyeh means “condolence” in Arabic. In Iranian culture, Taʻziyeh is known as a passion play inspired by the tragic death of Hussein. In South Asia and the Caribbean, the word “taziya” refers to miniature models of the mausoleums of Husain, used in ritual processions held in the month of Muharram. The ritual actions associated with Taʻziyeh have absorbed many local traditions. The traditions of the Shia communities of Northern India (particularly that of Lucknow) and Iran are particularly interesting for their undeniable connection and prominent differences. Comparing the traditions of the Shia communities in India and Iran, I will consider the transformation of the performing arts associated with Taʻziyeh, and will attempt to trace how grief is expressed within the framework of performing rituals associated with Taʻziyeh.