Hyderabad witnessed the deeply revered Bibi Ka Alam procession on Youm-e-Ashura, the 10th day of Muharram, continuing a centuries-old tradition marked by solemnity and spiritual devotion. The procession commenced at 1 PM from Alawa-e-Bibi, with the symbolic ‘Alam’ (standard) mounted on an elephant named Lakshmi, specially brought from Karnataka for the occasion. Thousands of mourners, clad in black, participated in the solemn march, offering prayers and beating their chests in remembrance of the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (A.S.) and his companions in the Battle of Karbala.
Despite the intense July heat and massive turnout, the procession maintained its dignified pace. However, it experienced minor delays, as the elephant paused at two points, causing a slowdown near the Etebar Chowk junction. Between 1 PM and 3 PM, the standard had not yet crossed the junction due to these brief halts, but the crowd remained orderly and patient, reflecting the deeply spiritual nature of the gathering. The event is known for blending cultural legacy with religious mourning, and the participation of elephants has remained a highlight over the decades.
To ensure safety and smooth movement, the Hyderabad Police deployed nearly 2,000 personnel, including rapid action forces and traffic management units. Senior officers supervised from strategic locations to manage crowd flow and prevent any untoward incidents. Barricades, surveillance drones, and public announcement systems were in place, while volunteers also assisted in guiding mourners and distributing water. The Bibi Ka Alam procession, unique to Hyderabad, continues to symbolize the city’s rich heritage of unity, religious observance, and collective memory.
