A viral video from Ludhiana showing a group of youths allegedly dancing with swords and sticks during Muharram has sparked controversy, prompting Punjab’s Shahi Imam, Maulana Mohammad Usman Ur Rahmani Ludhianvi, to seek legal action against those responsible and describe the incident as an affront to the sanctity of the occasion.
Muharram, observed by Muslims as a period of mourning in memory of Imam Hussain and the martyrs of Karbala, is traditionally marked by solemn religious gatherings. However, videos circulating on social media allegedly show participants at an event in Ludhiana’s Dana Mandi area dancing to DJ music while brandishing sticks and unsheathed swords, triggering criticism from religious circles.
Issuing a video statement, the Shahi Imam said turning a day of mourning into a public celebration was against Islamic teachings and warned that such conduct would not be tolerated. He urged Muslim organisations and religious scholars across the country to approach local police wherever similar incidents were reported and seek the registration of criminal cases against the organisers.
He said maintaining discipline during religious processions was the responsibility of organisers and community leaders. He added that obtaining official permission for an event also carried the responsibility of ensuring that religious traditions and public order were respected.
Without naming any individual, the cleric alleged that some participants had turned Muharram processions into entertainment by playing film songs, dancing in public and openly carrying weapons. He also expressed concern over reports that some people were allegedly consuming alcohol and engaging in unruly behaviour, saying such actions tarnished both the spirit of Muharram and the image of the Muslim community.
“We cannot expect others to protect our religious values if we fail to do so ourselves,” he said, asserting that those violating Islamic principles should first be held accountable by the community itself.
The Shahi Imam also appealed to Shia organisations and other Muslim bodies to preserve the dignity of Azadari. He said the remembrance of Karbala symbolises sacrifice, patience and justice, not celebration or disorder.
The controversy erupted after videos of the Ludhiana event went viral, drawing mixed reactions on social media. Several members of the Muslim community also expressed concern, saying Muharram should remain a solemn observance and should not be associated with music, celebratory dancing or the public display of weapons.
Police had not issued any official statement on the viral video or indicated whether a case had been registered at the time of filing this report.