The Islamic month of Muharram, marking the beginning of the Hijri calendar year, started on Friday, June 27, 2025. Regarded as the second-holiest month after Ramadan, Muharram holds deep spiritual and historical significance for Muslims worldwide.
The 10th day of this month, known as Ashura, will be observed on Sunday, July 6 in India. While many citizens are curious whether 7th July is a holiday in India by the government, it’s important to note that the official gazetted holiday is on July 6, which is a Sunday. Hence, July 7 is not a declared government holiday.
How Muharram is observed across communities
Ashura is a solemn day, especially for Shia Muslims, who mourn the martyrdom of Prophet Mohammed’s grandson, Hazrat Imam Hussain. The day is marked by processions, poetry recitations, and in some regions, acts of self-mortification. Sunni Muslims observe the day by fasting, offering prayers, and giving alms.
Because Ashura is a gazetted holiday, most schools, government offices, and private organisations will remain closed on July 6. This includes post offices, stock markets, and public sector banks. The Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) and National Stock Exchange (NSE) will suspend trading in equity, SLB, currency derivatives, and interest rate instruments.
Security heightened ahead of Muharram processions
In light of past communal sensitivities during Muharram, authorities in several states have stepped up security. In Uttar Pradesh, Sambhal district officials placed over 900 individuals under preventive restrictions.
District Magistrate Rajendra Pensiya stated that anyone attempting to create conflict would face similar restrictions and risk forfeiting surety bonds. Meanwhile, DGP Rajeev Krishna has issued orders prohibiting new Muharram routes and public display of weapons during processions. Morning patrols, drone surveillance, and poster checks are also underway across cities.
