30/06/2026
*Karbala* refers to the Battle of Karbala on 10 Muharram 61 AH / October 10, 680 CE in present-day Iraq.
*What happened*: Husayn ibn Ali, grandson of Prophet Muhammad, refused to pledge allegiance to Umayyad caliph Yazid I. With about 72 family members and companions, he was confronted by an Umayyad army of several thousand near Karbala.
*The siege*: Yazid's forces cut off access to the Euphrates River. After days without water, Husayn's group was killed in battle on the day of Ashura. Husayn, most male relatives, and his companions died. Women and children, including Husayn's son Ali Zayn al-Abidin, were taken captive to Damascus.
*Significance*:
- *For Shia Muslims*: Central tragedy. Ashura is commemorated annually with mourning, majlis, and processions. Husayn is seen as the embodiment of standing against injustice.
- *For Sunni Muslims*: Also recognized as a tragedy. Husayn is respected as a prominent member of Ahl al-Bayt.
- *Broader impact*: Shaped Shia identity and theology. Karbala became a symbol of resistance against oppression and tyranny.
The city of Karbala now houses the Imam Husayn Shrine and is a major pilgrimage site, especially during Arba'een.
