26 TAZIAS GATHERED AT JAGDISHPUR FORT GROUND

26 TAZIAS GATHERED AT JAGDISHPUR FORT GROUND

27-JUNE-ENG 9

RAJIV NAYAN AGRAWAL

ARA--------------------------On the occasion of Muharram, the Jagdishpur Nagar Panchayat in Bhojpur district was imbued with the beautiful hues of faith, tradition, and communal harmony. The event transcended mere religious observance, becoming a shining example of social harmony that drew people from far and wide. The sight was truly spectacular when 26 grand and captivating *Taziyas* (replicas of the shrine of Imam Hussain), arriving from various neighborhoods of the town, reached the historic Babu Veer Kunwar Singh Fort Ground. A massive crowd gathered at the fort grounds to catch a glimpse of these *Taziyas*.

A unique feature of this event was the participation of people from beyond national borders. Natives of Jagdishpur residing in countries like Saudi Arabia, Dubai, Qatar, and Sharjah traveled here specifically to be part of this tradition and witness an event deeply rooted in the soil of their homeland. The artistic decoration and intricate craftsmanship of the *Taziyas* captivated everyone. The 'Moti-wala Taziya' (pearl-adorned Taziya) from Khwaja Mohalla particularly drew attention, attracting a large crowd of young people eager to take selfies and capture photographs with it.

Another significant aspect of the event is a centuries-old tradition upheld by three Hindu families. These families not only participate actively in the event but also sustain the *Ganga-Jamuni Tehzeeb* (syncretic culture) that has become the hallmark of Jagdishpur. The way the entire town stood united on the occasion of Muharram sends a powerful message of communal harmony. The fort grounds remained abuzz with activity throughout the day, with security and logistical arrangements well-managed.