Unity College recently hosted a six-day Muharram Special Assembly from July 8 to 12, 2024. Organised by the Theology Department, the event aimed to enlighten the school community about the profound significance of this sacred month in Islamic tradition.

The tiny tots from class Prep gave a beautiful start to the special assembly with their heart-touching recitation of Nauhas. The assembly was prepared by Ms Hejana Ali Rizvi and Ms Wafa. Kulsoom Fatima (Prep-C) beautifully recited the Nauha 'HayeMazloom Hussain.' Surah Tawheed was recited by Yusuf Husain (Prep-A). A poignant group Nauha, 'Jab RidaSar Se,' by Sakina Rizvi (Prep-A), Rumaiza Rizvi (Prep-A), Zainab Rizvi (Prep-A), Zehra Fatima (Prep-B), and Kashan Abbas (Prep-C), brought tears to the listeners' eyes. Theology teacher, Ms Hejana Ali Rizvi, delivered a powerful speech on the message of Karbala, emphasising the duties and responsibilities of Azadars during the month of Muharram.

The assembly from Primary to Senior Secondary Sections, prepared by Theology teachers, Ms Zeba Fatima and Ms Ana Khan, began every day with a poignant recitation of verses from the Holy Qur’an by Fatima Hania (VIII-B), Wajiha (IX-A), Zainab Raza (VII-B), Faris Abrar (XII-D), and Ali Zaidi (XII-D), followed by inspirational speeches about Imam Hussain (AS) and his loyal companions. Areeba Fatima (V-B) and Yasha Batool (V-C) delivered speeches on Janabe John Bin Huwai and Anas Bin Harith, respectively, highlighting the upliftment of marginalised communities and the generosity of the centenarian companion of Prophet Mohammad (PBUH). Ramiza Fatima (XI-A) spoke on the events of Karbala. Zoha Sajjad (VIII-A) elaborated on the aim behind Karbala, while Hadiqa-tuz-Zahra (IX-B) highlighted the feeling of empathy through her speech on ‘Isaar-o-Karbala’. The endurance and patience of the martyrs and captives of Karbala were beautifully captured by Zainab Fatima (X-C), whereas the knowledge and cognition and the role of the women in the battle of Karbala were highlighted by Haniya Zehra (XI-A) and Hiba Zehra (XII-C) in their speeches, respectively. Teacher SayyedaKaneez Abbas eloquently conveyed the significance of Karbala.

The heartfelt elegies by Farwa Zehra (VIII-C), Butool Fatima (IX-B), Tatheer Fatima (XII-D), Rehbar (XII-D), Shahih Hussain (XII-D), Ahmad Hussain (XII-D), Hal Ata Abbas (XII-A), and Hiba Zehra (XII-C) stirred deep emotions, reflecting on the tragic events of Karbala.

A notable highlight was an informative presentation by Labiba Zehra (V-C), Ibtida Zahra (V-A), and Qaima Zehra (V-A), creatively illustrating facts about Muharram and providing the audience with a comprehensive understanding of Muharram's historical and cultural significance.

Principal Mr Deepak Mathews delivered a speech emphasising the values of supreme sacrifice, compassion, focus on goals, and upliftment of the downtrodden, urging students to continually draw life lessons from the events of Karbala. Vice Principal Mr Sachindra Bharti emphasised that the best tribute we could offer to our forefathers is to perform our duties in the best possible manner. He also emphasised the importance of tolerance and perseverance, urging students to embrace these values.

The assembly concluded with a lasting impression, underscoring the timeless importance of Muharram in fostering empathy and togetherness within the school community.