Muharram procession binds Hindu-Muslims together in north Karnataka

North Karnataka's unique dialect of Kannada is also a unifying factor among different communities here. The members from both Hindus and Muslims were seen together in the procession.

The interesting thing about the procession was, this time a tableau featuring Ram, Lakshman, Hanuman was witnessed. Also a replica of Ayodhya featured during the Muharram procession at Girisagara village of Bagalkot district.

While incidents of group clashes and rioting are being reported between communities due to religious and caste differences, the Muharram celebration in parts of Karnataka has proved otherwise.

Similarly in Hireshellikeri village, Hindus and Muslims partook together. People walked on hot charcoal as part of the custom in this segment.

Hubballi-Dharwad which witnessed the worst clashes during Babri Masjid demolition in 1992 and also during the right-wing faction trying to hoist the religious national flag, witnessed a peaceful Muharram celebration as hundreds took part in the procession.

The irony is that despite the government banning any religious gathering due to Covid, such religious events are being held and also Covid norms are being violated.