Lucknow: On the 19th of Ramadan, the Shia community in Lucknow took out a Gilim (blanket coffin) procession with devotion and tearful eyes. The nearly 4-kilometer-long procession included men, women, children, and the elderly, all dressed in black. People competed to see, touch, and kiss the coffin.
The procession began after a majlis and prayers
Before the procession, a majlis was held at the Kufa Mosque in Saadatganj, and prayers were offered. Members of the Shia community offered prayers. The procession then passed through Turiyaganj, Sarkata Nala, and Billauchpura, culminating at the Pata Nala Imambara in Chowk.
Police, RAF, and CRPF handled security along the 4-kilometer route
Police forces were deployed at every corner of the procession for security purposes. The RAF and CRPF took charge. Drones and CCTV cameras provided surveillance. Police personnel were also stationed on the rooftops of buildings along the route the procession took.
The procession was held to commemorate the attack on Hazrat Ali
This procession was held to commemorate the first sword attack on Hazrat Ali. Hazrat Ali was first attacked on the 19th of Ramadan, and was martyred on the 21st of Ramadan.