MONDAY, March 26, was the 1st of Muharram of the year 1422 AH of the Islamic calendar, which is lunar based and therefore the Islamic year is about ten days shorter than the solar year.

Although this was the New Year's Day which in any other culture and religion would have given rise to partying and general rejoicing, the Muslim world however, does not welcome the New Year with fanfares but with sorrow, because it was in Muharram, the first month of the Islamic year, when some of the most painful episodes in Islamic history took place.

Muharram in particular is now synonymous with the martyrdom Hazrat Imam Hussain, the grandson of the Holy Prophet, who was slain with the rest of his family and companions in the plains of Karbala, in present day Iraq, in 680 AD.

The Imam is seen as the embodiment of courage, patience and determination to oppose a wrongdoer even when his whole family was put to the sword before his own eyes.

He himself accepted death and was survived by a few female members of the family and one male child, the descendants of whom are called Syed.

The example of Imam Hussain's steadfastness, courage and fortitude in facing the enemy and accepting death rather than a long dishonourable life is the reason why Hussain is such a common name among the Muslims all over the world.

It is also because of his example that Muslims all over the world challenge unjust and oppressive societies.

The Islamic New Year is used by the Muslim world in remembrance of the sacrifice of Hazrat Imam Hussain, rather than for merrymaking.

From the beginning to the 10th day of Muharram, the period of the conflict which led to the final tragedy, most Muslims do not take part in any activity which may be seen to be an expression of joy or celebration of anything as it would go against the spirit of solidarity with Imam Hussain and the very harsh conditions endured by him and his companions over 13 centuries ago.

Most Muslims, the Shia Muslim minority in particular, hold meetings to remember the Imam and pray for their departed souls.

In High Wycombe, nightly meetings are being organised at the Castlefield Community Centre, after 8pm, until Wednesday, where, among others, Syed Raza Hussain Shah, from the Imamia Mission in London will address the audience every night.