Thousands of Muslims celebrate Muharram in West Bengal

Beating drums and thumping their chests, thousands of Muslims across West Bengal took out large processions on Friday to mourn the martyrdom of Prophet Mohammed's grandson Imam Hussain at Karbala 1338 years back on the 10th day of the first Islamic month of Muharram.

Processions were organized at many places here to observe the day, also known as Yaum-e-Ashura, an important date in the Islamic calendar.

On Muharram, considered a day of bereavement, Muslims observe voluntary fast, generously donate to charity and pray to remember Hussain.

Elaborate security arrangements were made in Kolkata and the districts to prevent any breach of peace.

Police patrolling was stepped up, particularly in the sensitive areas, with traffic restricted in parts of the city to enable the processions to pass unhindered.