There are various important occasions related to the Muharram. On the first day of this month, the Islamic New Year begins. Also, this is the day which marks the anniversary of the Battle of Karbala and also when Husayn bin Ali entered Karbala and therefore is observed as the Commemoration of Muharram. On the day of Ashura, Muslims observe the death anniversary of Husayn Bin Ali. Shia Muslims however give more importance to this day than the Sunnis. Also, it was on 25Muharram that Ali Zayn al-Abidin was poisoned and on 27 Muharram that Mesum was killed.

The month of Muharram has many people fasting during the entire time. The month begins at the time when the first crescent of the new moon is sighted. The tenth day of the month is called Yamu-I ‘Ashurah. On this day, fasting is voluntary.  The rules of fasting during the month however differ in various Muslim sects. Usually, people fast during the day and eat or drink only in the evening. Also, nothing is to be celebrated in the month of Muharram since it is said to be a grieving month for the Muslims.