Today marks Ashura day, the 10th day of the holy month of Muharram in the Islamic year 1446. In commemoration of Hosay, tadjahs will be ceremoniously “drowned” in the sea. In Cedros, mournful elegies will be sung at dusk, honoring the deaths of Prophet Mohammed’s grandsons, Hassan and Hussein, one by poisoning and the other in battle.
The tradition of Hosay, originally from Iran and brought to the region through India, has a long history as a passion play. Dr. Satnarine Balkaransingh’s forthcoming book, “Hosay in the Caribbean: Tadjahs on Wheels,” delves deep into this ritual, presenting decades of research spanning India, the Caribbean, and Trinidad.
This comprehensive book serves as a pivotal piece for those interested in Indian indenture, British colonial rule, religion, festivals, protest, and creolisation in the Caribbean. It sheds light on how religious practices evolve over time, retaining their meaningful essence while adapting to new environments.
As Dr. Balkaransingh’s work exemplifies, the way Hosay is observed in Trinidad has a distinct Trinidian flair. Despite historical legislation and policing that aimed to divide the colony, the communal cultural practice has persisted, incorporating Hindus into the ritual.
The book also explores how similar commemorative practices vary across different regions, such as Guyana, Suriname, Jamaica, and Belize, demonstrating the diverse ways in which grief is expressed through traditional and syncretic rituals.
From tracing Prophet Mohammed’s life to the battle at Karbala, where Hussein was killed, the book offers a fascinating journey through the origins of Muharram observances and their intercontinental migration to the Caribbean. It highlights the role of public street mourning in defiance of British rule and showcases the Afro-Caribbean participation in honoring this tradition.
The legacy of the 1884 massacre in San Fernando and its repercussions on cultural expression are thoroughly examined, shedding light on the politics of divide and repress that influenced the region’s history. The book also delves into the syncretic nature of Muharram rituals and how commemorations have evolved over time.
Dr. Balkaransingh’s research provides invaluable insights into the intricate details of Hosay celebrations, from instruments played to routes taken, attires worn, and songs sung. This wealth of information immerses readers in the rich tapestry of Caribbean customs and the profound significance of honoring tradition in the present day.
As I stand in Cedros today, awaiting the poignant moment when the tadjahs topple into the bay, I am reminded of the deep-rooted history and cultural significance of this sacred occasion. The haunting melodies of the marsiya resonate in the air, symbolizing the enduring spirit of remembrance and unity that Hosay embodies.
