Hundreds of Muslims participate in Shia procession in Blackburn

Last weekend, a large group of Muslims gathered outside the Shia Islamic Centre in Blackburn to participate in the annual Shia march, Ashura. 

Throughout the procession, worshippers hear about the background of the event, which is a profoundly personal and solemn event as it signifies the death of Imam Hussein, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad. 

Ashura is held worldwide on the 10th day of the Islamic month of Muharram, the first month of the lunar calendar. 

 The exact date of the commemoration changes each year, and in previous years, the event has been held in sub-zero temperatures. 

The procession made their way through Blackburn, stopping often as the men chanted and beat their chests before heading back to the Islamic Centre. 

Young people were allowed to hold 20-foot poles and flags at the front of the procession. 

The march is organised and marshalled by a group of volunteers keen to speak to any passers-by to explain the event’s significance. 

Householders living in the area watched from their windows and doorsteps as the march passed. 

Similar processions were held in Burnley, Preston and Manchester.