Karbala is a historic city located in present-day Iraq, approximately 100 kilometers southwest of Baghdad. Its history is deeply intertwined with a significant event that took place on the 10th day of Muharram in the year 680 AD.

This event, known as the Battle of Karbala, was a pivotal moment in Islamic history and has profound importance for the Shia Muslim community. It involved the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, Imam Husayn ibn Ali, and his loyal followers facing off against the forces of the Umayyad caliph Yazid.

The root of the conflict lies in a power struggle within the Islamic community following the death of the Prophet Muhammad in 632 AD. Imam Husayn, as the rightful successor according to the Shia tradition, rejected the legitimacy of Yazid's rule and refused to pledge allegiance to him. Fearing the growing influence of Husayn and his family, Yazid sent a military force to force them to submit.

Imam Husayn, along with his family members and a small group of devoted followers, journeyed from Medina to Kufa in modern-day Iraq, responding to calls for support from Kufan citizens. However, upon reaching Karbala, they were met by Yazid's army, which vastly outnumbered them.

Despite facing overwhelming odds, Imam Husayn and his followers stood their ground and refused to surrender. On the day of Ashura, the 10th day of Muharram, a tragic battle ensued. Imam Husayn and his entire group were martyred, including his six-month-old son Ali al-Asghar, and the women and children were taken captive.

The aftermath of the Battle of Karbala was marked by immense grief and sorrow among the Shia community. The martyrdom of Imam Husayn and his companions became a symbol of resistance against oppression and tyranny, inspiring a sense of religious devotion and unity among Shia Muslims.

The commemoration of Ashura, held annually on the 10th day of Muharram, serves as a time of mourning, reflection, and reinvigorated devotion for Shia Muslims worldwide. It fosters a spirit of sacrifice, standing against injustice, and upholding the values of Islam.

Throughout history, Karbala has been a sacred pilgrimage site for Shia Muslims, drawing millions of visitors each year to pay their respects at the holy shrines of Imam Husayn and his companions. The legacy of Karbala continues to resonate in the hearts of millions, reminding believers of the importance of upholding justice and righteousness even in the face of adversity.