Wakf Board issues guidelines for Muharram

Telangana Wakf Board has finally released guidelines for the month of Muharram. It stated that customs and rituals related to Alams of 9th and 10th Muharram will be performed by mujawars, mutawallis, or managing committees by following social distancing. It says Alaava (walk on fire) will be allowed only in places where it had been traditionally followed.

The guidelines, however, make no specific mention of historical ‘Bibi ka Alam’ procession. Confusion is

thus continuing whether or not the central procession will be allowed. City police are not in favour of the procession because of Covid-19 and Ganesh festivities during the period.

The Department of Environment, Forests, Science and Technology has not issued NOC for bringing an elephant from the neighbouring state to participate in the alam procession. Wakf Board has also not released any funds for hiring of the pachyderm. Bibi ka Alam (standard) is installed at Bibi ka Alawa in Dabeerpura on the first day of the first Islamic month of Muharram, which falls on Friday this time.

The Wakf Board has asked custodians of Ashoorkhanas to display the maximum number of devotees who can be accommodated for Majlis (congregation).

Gates will have to be closed once the devotees occupy their slots, as per government guidelines. The board has also made mandatory that Tabarruk (sacramental items) and sharbat (drinks) be sealed in packets and distribution while ensuring social distancing in the premises of Ashoorkhanas. Even water should be distributed only in sealed water bottles or sachets.

Managements of Ashoorkhanas have been asked to display preventive measures with regard to Covid-19 in vernacular language at a prominent place near Ashoorkhanas. Senior citizens and children have been advised to stay away from all gatherings in connection with Muharram.