Hosay is an Islamic festival
observed by Shi’a Muslims
throughout the world – and
the celebration was brought
to Trinidad as early as
1845. Although referred to
as a festival, Hosay really
isn’t – at least, not in the
strictest sense of the word.
In many Islamic countries,
this tradition takes a more
solemn religious tone as it
is considered a time of
mourning for the martyred.
Generally, Hosay runs for
four days either in April,
May or June in accordance
with the Islamic lunar
calendar
Hosay is the commemoration
of the martyrdom of the
Prophet Mohammed’s grandsons
Hassan and Hussein at the
Battle of Kerbala in Persia.
The observances start on
Flag Night when the first
procession takes place.
Hundreds of devotees walk
through the streets carrying
multi-coloured flags to
symbolize the beginning of
the Battle of Kerbala in
which the brothers lost
their lives.
On the second night, small
Tadjahs (elaborately
decorated models of mosques
that are made in ‘yards’ by
volunteers who first go
through purification rituals
of fasting, abstinence from
sex, and prayers) are
carried slowly through the
streets to the sound of
throbbing Tassa drums –
symbolic of war drums,
played in set rhythms that
are common throughout the
world. You cannot help but
be drawn in by the pulsating
sound of these drums whose
cadence can be heard for
miles.
Large Tadjahs, also
accompanied by Tassa drums,
make their appearance on the
third night and are quite
spectacular – usually being
more than two metres high
and more elaborate versions
of their smaller
counterparts. Eager
participants parade them
through the streets while
dancers carry two large
crescent-shaped moons
representing the two
brothers.
On the fourth day, there is
a daylight procession where
the moons are led through
the streets to an open
field, where, in simulation
of the battle they ‘dance’
with each other. A special
prayer is offered for the
dead as this part of the
proceedings represent the
entombment of the brothers.
This is the last time you
will see the Tadjahs,
because the celebrations end
on this day – usually by
about 7:00 p.m.
In the early beginnings of
the festival, the Tadjahs
would be thrown into the sea
to ensure that all prayers
would be answered. Today,
however, the celebrants are
much more environmentally
aware and choose to
dismantle and properly
dispose of its parts.
In Trinidad, the observances
have evolved to include
participants from all races,
religions and walks of life.
The largest observance is
held in St. James, a suburb
of Port of Spain, but you
can also find Hosay
processions in Curepe,
Tunapuna, Couva and Cedros.
No matter where you choose
to view this festival,
please remember that because
of its religious
significance, alcohol is not
encouraged
