Youm e Ali is a religious festival commemorating the birth of Hazrat Imam Ali Ibn Abi Talib (RA), born in Mecca - one of Islam's holiest sites.
On February 25th, 2021, Ismaili Muslims commemorate the birth of Hazrat Ali (RA), - cousin and son-in-law to Prophet Muhammad (saws) and first Imam in Shia Muslim tradition. To show their commitment to his teachings on this special occasion, they join together in reaffirming their observance of this commemoration.
Hazrat Ali is held in high regard as a spiritual master and bearer of Imamat, or Light. As an intercessor for Muslims, He serves as a powerful reminder of God's love and compassion.
Youm e Ali is a religious day commemorating the passing of Imam Ali (AS), son-in-law and cousin to Prophet Muhammad who would later become the fourth Caliph of Islam. He is widely venerated among Shia Muslims for his piety and leadership.
Each year, Muslims around the world observe Youm-e-Ali as a moment to commemorate Hazrat Imam Ali and his role in shaping Islam.
It is an iconic religious holiday for millions around the world, particularly Ismailis. On Youm-e-Ali, they commemorate Imam Ali who they consider to be the first Imam of all Muslims.
On Thursday, Pakistan witnessed numerous processions and Majalis across the country. Nonetheless, the government banned all large street processions as well as indoor group worship at mosques and shrines on Youm-e-Ali.
What Is Youm e Ali?
On September 26th, 2021, Muslims around the world observed Youm e Ali 2021: an annual commemoration of Hazrat Ali (RA), Prophet Muhammad's companion and son-in-law. Millions of Muslims around the globe join together in devotion and joy on this momentous religious occasion.
On Youm e Ali 2021, followers of Islam observe a time of celebration and reflection to honor Hazrat Ali (RA). Additionally, they prepare special foods and dishes in honor of this momentous occasion.
In addition to religious devotion, Youm e Ali is an occasion where Muslims commemorate Hazrat Ali (RA), the rightful successor of Prophet Muhammad who died at a young age. Ali had an immense impact on Islamic thought and culture throughout its long history.
Estimates suggest that around 200 million Shia Muslims worldwide celebrated Youm e Ali 2021 with large street processions in commemoration of the occasion, which typically conclude in the evening at prominent Shia Imam Bargahs.
Shia Muslims commemorate Hazrat Ali (RA), the first imam and progenitor of all rightful successors to Prophet Muhammad, by remembering his martyrdom. He is seen as a savior of Islam who battled against darkness and spread peace throughout the world.
Although Youm e Ali is a major religious holiday, it has not always been free from dangers. In the past, Sunni extremists have attacked Shi'a during this observance.
The risk of attacks is greatest along procession routes and major worship sites. Thousands of security personnel may be deployed to prevent sectarian violence and ensure the safety of attendees.
Islam holds Youm e Ali to be an important observance, yet the risk of attack is high due to Pakistan's ongoing coronavirus pandemic. In order to contain its spread, NCOC has implemented anti-Covid standard operating procedures that prohibit all types of processions; Majalis are still allowed under these restrictions.
What Is the Significance of Youm e Ali?
On Youm e Ali 2021, Ismaili Muslims commemorate and honor Hazrat Ali (peace be upon him), their cousin, son-in-law, and cousin to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him and his family). Hazrat Ali served as the first Shia Imam and rightly guided Caliph for Ismaili Muslims with his wisdom, piety, and leadership. This day serves to renew their faith in Hazrat Ali (RA), who many regard as a hereditary hero for Ismaili Muslims due to his wisdom, devotion, and leadership.
Hazrat Ali's religious commitment, integrity, and moral character were highly admired by his predecessors and followers alike. His ability to unite and lead various Islamic factions earned him respect even from his adversaries - including Jews. Hazrat Ali even earned himself the respect and admiration of these same people for his bravery in facing danger.
His legacy of piety, integrity, and moral courage continues to motivate many Muslims today, especially Ismaili Muslims. The Ismaili community needs to reaffirm its devotion and beliefs in Hazrat Ali (RA), whose principles of compassion, generosity, integrity, tolerance, forgiveness, and service still resonate today.
Every year, the Ismaili community celebrates Youm E Ali to honor Hazrat Ali's contributions to Islam and beyond. It serves as a time to renew their dedication to Ali's ethical principles - compassion, generosity, integrity, tolerance, forgiveness, selflessness, and service to those less fortunate.
On Youm e Ali, people around the world come together to pray for peace, unity, and goodwill. It's also a time to remember all of the lives that have been lost in the pursuit of justice and peace around the world - both religious and non-religious alike - who made ultimate sacrifices for this cause.
What Is the Date of Youm e Ali?
On the 13th of Rajab (2021), Muslims around the world commemorate Hazrat Ali (Blessings of Allah Be Upon Him). This date holds special significance in their Islamic calendar as it marks the birth of Imam Ali from Baitullah, Iran - his companion, son-in-law, cousin to Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) as well as being his fourth Rightly Guided Caliph.
Shia Muslims hold the Youm e Ali date as a sacred day and it is considered the most significant holiday of their faith. People take part in large processions, known as jaloos, and attend major religious gatherings to honor Hazrat Ali's (RA) life.
Islam celebrates Hazrat Ali with great religious fervor around the world, and it serves as a time to reflect on his teachings. Hazrat Ali (RA) is thought to be amongst the most gifted of all Prophet Muhammad's companions, inspiring Muslims around the world to cherish him with deep devotion.
On Youm e Ali, Muslim communities across the globe pay homage to Hazrat Ali by taking a day off work and dedicating it solely to prayers. Additionally, they often read from the Quran or engage in other spiritual pursuits.
On Youm e Ali, some Muslim organizations may offer charity and donate money to those in need. This event serves as a time of remembrance for followers of Shia Islam and an opportunity for them to express their affection and respect for the martyred imam.
Pakistan's federal and Sindh governments have taken extra precautions ahead of Youm e Ali to prevent sectarian violence. The federal government has banned all traditional large street procession activities while allowing indoor group worship at shrines across the country.
However, security may be enhanced along procession routes and major worship sites to prevent attacks that could spark rioting and retaliatory violence against Sunni interests. Shootings and bombings are possible, particularly in Karachi, Lahore, and Quetta where major Shi'a Youm e Ali processions are frequent.
On Youm-e-Ali, many people travel back to their ancestral homelands to celebrate this special holiday. It is especially beloved among Ismailis and other Muslim communities from the Middle East.
In Pakistan, Youm-e-Ali is observed with great reverence, and large mourning processions are held across the country to commemorate Hazrat Ali's passing. Thousands take part in these commemorative gatherings throughout cities throughout Pakistan.
Recently, Sunni extremists have attacked Shi'a during Youm-e-Ali gatherings, mocking their devotion and loyalty to Ali (RA). Clashes, shootings, and bombings are possible during these gatherings.
On Saturday, the government implemented strict restrictions on Youm-e-Ali processions due to the emerging COVID-19 situation. At a meeting of the NCOC chaired by Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Asad Umar, it was agreed that all processions on This Day of Prayer will be banned; Matmi Majalis can only take place under certain conditions set out in SOPs already implemented for Ramadan.
Dates
Youm e Ali is a day that Muslims from around the globe celebrate. It commemorates Hazrat Ali (Blessings of Allah Be Upon Him), one of the four Rightly Guided Caliphs. Additionally, Youm e Ali holds great significance in Islam's history due to its close association with the birth of the Holy Qur'an.
Rajab-based Youm e Ali 2021, originally held during the Middle Ages and now celebrated worldwide, has its roots in medieval times. The day is marked by various processions - one of the most iconic being a gyro float - with thousands of participants joining in on this festive occasion.
Youm e Ali is an important Islamic holiday for Muslims of all faiths and denominations, especially Shia Muslims who believe Ali to be the first Imam of their religion. Additionally, Sunni Muslims, particularly Ahmadis, hold special significance as Ali was a companion of Prophet Muhammad during this event.
Although Youm e Ali has never been a major holiday in Pakistan, it remains an important religious occasion for Muslims around the world. For some, it marks an especially auspicious point in their Ramadan journey while for others it serves as an opportunity to reflect upon Allah's blessings.
Observances
On Youm e Ali, Muslims commemorate the birthday of Hazrat Ali (RA), born on 13 Rajab in Mecca and widely revered for his pious life and wisdom. He combined the qualities of a poet, soldier, and saint into one person; his words still echo through various moral and religious sayings today.
Sunni Muslims consider Ali the fourth Rashidun Caliph, while Shias revere him as the first Imam after Muhammad (PBUH). Both groups recognize Ali's integrity in upholding Islam's principles and Qur'an.
Youm e Ali is a religious holiday celebrated around the Muslim world. Devotees visit mosques and perform rituals such as praying, recitation of the Qur'an and reading Maqtal Al-Husayn. Majalis are also held, where Ulemas give sermons on Hazrat Ali's life and teachings.
Around the world, large processions take place in cities. These celebrations often feature musical entertainment such as Qawalies.
In Pakistan, Youm e Ali is a major holiday with large gatherings. As such, security around procession routes and major worship sites has been beefed up; in some parts of the country, there may even be transport disruptions due to heavy snowfall.
While Youm e Ali is a day of celebration for all Muslims, it holds special meaning to Shiite believers. They view Ali as the first Imam and progenitor of rightful successors to Muhammad, thus making this holiday especially significant to them.
He is revered as a spiritual and intellectual authority in both Muslim tradition and modern scholarship alike. Both Sunnis and Shias alike admire his bravery, integrity, beliefs, morals, honesty, and devotion to Islam, as well as other qualities attributed to him.
Youm e Ali is a day of celebration for both Shiites and Sunnis alike, but it can cause controversy in some countries. In Iran especially, this holiday often serves to foster tensions between the two communities.
Preparations
On February 25th, 2021 Youm e Ali is widely observed throughout Muslim-majority countries around the world - Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh in particular - to commemorate the birth of their prophet Muhammad's son-in-law Hazrat Ali. It serves as an inspiring moment for all to pause and reflect upon this joyous occasion.
He was born in Mecca, the holiest place for Muslims. He served as a close companion of the prophet and showed loyalty to him. Additionally, he played an influential role in spreading Islam and was an iconic figure within the Islamic community.
After Uthman ibn Affan died, he was appointed Caliph and ruled until 661 when he received a severe blow to the head from Ibn Muljam while offering prayers at the Great Mosque of Kufa in modern-day Iraq; unfortunately, this wound proved fatal within two days.
Hazrat Ali was renowned for his political and religious accomplishments, as well as his spiritual leadership. He was seen as the bearer of the same Nur (light) as Prophet Muhammad and an intercessor.
Youm e Ali celebrations are revered as one of the world's most sacred festivals. They commemorate Hazrat Ali's life and contribution to Islam's spread, honor his lineal descent from Prophet Muhammad, and ask for protection over him in prayer.
Authorities have taken numerous precautions for Youm e Ali 2021 to keep people safe from any potential incidents. The National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) has issued guidelines regarding Youm e Ali processions as well as Majalis.
Clerics and Zakireen who exhibit symptoms of the coronavirus will be prohibited from participating in Youm e Ali processions. They must go through thermal screening and wear face masks at all times to protect themselves.
Events
Pakistan commemorates Youm e Ali on the 13th of Rajab annually to mark the martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Ali Ibn Abi Talib. A large gathering takes place across Karachi and other cities throughout the country to pay homage to this fourth caliph's devotion and selflessness.
Youm e Ali is an annual celebration that draws thousands of devotees from across Pakistan. Many wear masks and chant in praise of their beloved ancestor, raising slogans and carrying banners in their honor.
Quetta witnessed its biggest gathering ever this year with over 30,000 attendees. The procession through the city streets was truly a sight to behold.
Social media users were quick to react when a video clip of the event went viral, sparking an array of conversations online. The montage featured individuals wearing masks, carrying flags, and chanting while seemingly self-flagellating.
The video caused controversy due to its unauthentic origins - likely a hoax. Eventually, YouTube users debunked the clip for being false.
Another event that captured public attention was President Arif Alvi's phone call to Majlis Wahdat-e-Muslimeen chief Allama Raja Nasir Abbas. During their conversation, Arif promised Abbas that religious events such as Majalis would be allowed with stringent Covid SOPs in place.
The federal government has also intensified security for Youm e Ali 2021. Several provinces have deployed their police and paramilitary forces along the processional route and major worship sites. Expect significant street closures and traffic disruptions, particularly in main cities and towns where marches or other demonstrations take place.
Gatherings
Some of the biggest Youm e Ali 2021 events took place in Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore. These occasions featured majlis, mourning processions, and other activities.
Religious leaders and local politicians organized these events to raise awareness about Youm e Ali 2021 and other significant Islamic festivals.
However, some of the events also focused on political matters. Those attending Youm e Ali 2021 rallies often called for changes to how government functions; they sought to address matters such as lack of transparency when handling corruption cases and the ongoing standoff over Kashmir.
Meanwhile, several political parties organized Youm e Ali 2021 meetings and rallies throughout Pakistan, such as the National Awami Muslim League, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, and Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F).
As part of Youm e Ali 2021, several rallies were held to raise awareness about the ongoing political impasse in Kashmir. Politicians and other community leaders attended these events, which featured speeches by Kashmiri political figures as well as visits to Shaheed Geelani's gravesite.
Many mosques throughout the country held Youm e Ali 2021 gatherings, usually led by Islamic scholars. These gatherings provided Shia Muslims with a platform to connect, network, and learn about important Islamic festivals. Furthermore, it provided people with an opportunity to publicly show their support for Shia Muslims.
It was also a unique chance for Muslims to gain more insight into Imam Hussain's life. This momentous occasion is celebrated worldwide by Muslims with great emotion.
The majority of Youm e Ali 2021 events were peaceful and attended by Muslims from all backgrounds. Some gatherings featured loud music and dancing, as well as gatherings featuring groups of women and children.
Majalis
As Youm e Ali 2021 draws near, people throughout Pakistan are marking the occasion with spiritual reverence. Processions and Majalis will be held across the country in memory of Hazrat Ali.
However, the government has placed restrictions on processions and Jaloos for Youm e Ali. This decision was announced by the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) under the chairmanship of Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives Asad Umar. Media reports indicate that Sheikh Rashid as well as Minister for Religious Affairs Noor-ul-Haq Qadri were also present at the meeting in addition to Umar.
NCOC's decision comes amid an increase in novel coronavirus (COVID) cases across Pakistan. This outbreak has claimed 161 lives within 24 hours and tested positive for COVID among 3,377 people.
To prevent COVID-19's spread, the government has implemented stringent security measures. These include banning processions and Jaloos from Youm e Ali 2021 celebrations and requiring all participants to abide by anti-corona SOPs both before and during their procession.
Shia leaders have condemned the government's decision and stated that it contravenes an assurance President Arif Alvi had given them that mourning would be allowed under SOPs. The Shia leadership had been in talks with authorities regarding Youm e Ali, but now both Punjab and federal governments have prohibited its procession.
Allama Zulfiqar Haider, Punjab chairman of the Azadari Council, had urged the government to allow mourning for Youm e Ali under Standard Operating Procedures and not ban it. He expressed that this decision went against Shia's wishes, warning Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf that such a decision would be seen as discriminatory against them.
Procession
In many parts of the world, Youm e Ali is marked by a large street procession to honor and remember Hazrat Ali (RA), widely considered the first imam and progenitor of Shia Muslims.
Through these celebrations, it is also demonstrated to the world that Hazrat Ali was not only an important religious figure but also someone who exemplified many Islamic values such as compassion, generosity, integrity, tolerance, forgiveness, and service.
In Pakistan, Youm e Ali processions are a major holiday for Shia Muslims. The procession typically commences at a mosque and proceeds through the city center before concluding at an Imambargah.
According to reports in local media, police have intensified security across the country ahead of Youm e Ali 2021. They plan on mobilizing over 3,500 officers, along with additional patrols in high-risk areas.
Meanwhile, Allama Nasir Abbas of Majlis Wahdatul Muslimeen (MWM), has called on President Dr Arif Alvi to ensure reliable security for Youm-e-Ali 2021. He noted that last year's ban on Youm-e-Ali processions caused substantial property loss and harm to mourners and police personnel alike.
In the past, Youm e Ali processions have not been banned in Punjab. According to MWM leadership, these demonstrations serve as a symbol of unity and peace among Shias.
Celebrations
On February 25th, 2021, Muslims around the world celebrate by gathering together in mosques for prayers and devoting elaborate food preparations as a tribute to his great contributions to religion. Additionally, musical delights like Qawalies are frequently included in celebrations.
Processions are an integral part of Youm e Ali celebrations in Pakistan and around the world. Recently, large street processions have been held in Karachi and other cities of Pakistan in honor of Hazrat Ali ibn Abi Talib, whom Shia Muslims regard as Muhammad's rightful successor. However, due to concerns over the coronavirus spread, such street processions will not take place on Youm e Ali 2021 due to federal government restrictions.
Though processions are strictly forbidden in Pakistan, some people still take part in them, particularly in Karachi where this year a Youm e Ali procession was witnessed. Video footage captured at the event shows mourners wearing masks and singing in praise of Ali.
On Youm e Ali, Muslims from across the country commemorate Hazrat Ali's birth with great enthusiasm. Devotees come together for prayers and stories about Ali as they learn about his role in spreading Islam, followed by delicious food and musical performances. It truly is an occasion to be celebrated!
