A Sea of Devotion at Shah Najaf on the Night of Ashura, Every Voice Echoed: “Hussain Belongs to Us All” Shabu Zaidi

Lucknow, June 25, 2026 (9th Muharram):

At around 9:00 PM on Thursday night, I had the privilege of visiting the historic Shah Najaf Imambara in Hazratganj. On this sacred night of Ashura, the atmosphere was truly remarkable and deeply moving. People from every faith, community, and age group had gathered with their children, elders, and families to offer prayers and seek blessings in the love and reverence of Imam Hussain (A.S.).

Those whose wishes and prayers had been fulfilled were distributing sweets and other offerings with great devotion, warmly inviting everyone by saying, “Please accept this nazr.” The scene beautifully reflected the spirit of Ganga-Jamuni culture, humanity, and the universal teachings of Imam Hussain (A.S.).

Witnessing this atmosphere, I was reminded of the famous verse:

“Let every nation awaken to the truth first;

Then every nation will proclaim: Hussain belongs to us.”

In the spiritual ambiance of Shah Najaf, I offered Surah Al-Fatiha in memory of the Nawabs of Awadh and their services to this land. It is due to their vision and devotion that these magnificent Imambaras and mausoleums continue to serve as centers of faith, hope, and prayer for millions of people. Surely, the spiritual comfort and blessings received by visitors also reach the souls of those who established these sacred places.

The night of Ashura once again conveyed the message that Imam Hussain (A.S.) does not belong to any one community or religion alone. Rather, he stands as a symbol of justice, truth, humanity, and the eternal message of Karbala—a message that inspires people in every age to stand against oppression and never bow before tyranny.

— Shabu Zaidi