Grand Commemoration of Ashura in Turkey and the President’s Message of Condolence
On the 10th of Muharram, passionate Ashura ceremonies were held across various cities in Turkey, including Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, and Konya, with the widespread participation of Shia Muslims, Alevis, and lovers of the Ahl al-Bayt (AS).
In Shia-populated neighborhoods such as Fatih and Sultanbeyli, thousands of mourners honored the eternal epic of Karbala through chest-beating (sinezen) and chain-processions (zincir vurma). Chanting slogans like “Ya Husayn (AS)” and “Labbayk Ya Husayn (AS),” they marched in mourning processions, creating an atmosphere filled with love and devotion to the sacred memory of Imam Husayn (AS).
Hussainiyas and Sufi lodges across Turkey also hosted mourners, with large-scale distributions of votive offerings (nevruz) in Imam Husayn’s name. Attendees gathered at communal Ashura meal tables, while religious scholars and elegists recounted the tragedy of Ashura. They emphasized the lessons of resistance, perseverance, and defiance against oppression from Husayn’s uprising, with programs featuring poetry recitations and lamentations in Turkish, Persian, and Arabic.
A notable aspect was the enthusiastic participation of Sunni and Alevi citizens, reflecting Turkey’s national solidarity and deep respect for Ashura’s cultural significance.
Turkish President’s Message on Ashura
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, in a message marking Ashura, stated:
“I hope the Day of Ashura, which we observe today, brings blessings and goodness to our entire nation, especially our Alevi-Bektashi brothers and sisters.”
With profound reverence, he added:
“We remember with mercy and utmost respect the Master of Martyrs, Imam Husayn (AS), and his 72 loyal companions on the 1386th anniversary of their martyrdom.”
This message was released as Ashura ceremonies continued nationwide with massive public attendance. Erdoğan emphasized national unity and shared Islamic values in his statement, describing the day as a symbol of empathy and solidarity.
