This book is based on the ethnographic study conducted in Imambargah Hussainyia in Rural Jhang, Pakistan. The main aim of this research was to investigate the ways of Muharram rituals performance among the Shi a devotees in the locale. Researchers have used mix methods to investigate the intensity and magnitude of the rituals performance. The inhabitants perform following rituals during the month of Muharram; matam, majales, taziya, processions, alam, zuljinah, langar, and visitation of the holy shrines. According to Shi a Muslims, these rituals were started soon after the incident of the...

Shrines in Pakistan are complex social institutions with number of characteristics which bring people together despite cultural and geographical diversity that exists in their individual backgrounds. The Shrines have an internal organization, usually led by a Pir, besides a number of functionaries necessary for carrying out the diverse activities of the shrine. In this way, the shrines have the capability of making a positive contribution in the integration and unity of Pakistani society. The present book is based on the ethnographic study of the Shrine of Pir Mehr Ali Shah, located in the...