Surat’s 185-year-old tazia stops to let Covid-19 pass

SURAT: Even the British oppression could not stop them from taking out this exquisite tazia for 50 years. Devotees were even caned for not following the prohibitory orders.
But, the Covid-19 pandemic has put brakes on Surat’s Bohrajiwala tazia, which has been symbolizing Hindu-Muslim brotherhood, for the past 185 years.
Bohrajiwala tazia was built in 1835 during the British rule by Vali Mohammed Hakimji, who was associated with fabric business. Hakimji created the tazia by going against the orders of then British government, said the maker’s great grandson Ghulam Mustafa Hakimji, 80.
Ghulam Mustafa’s son Zahir said, “We won’t carry out the procession, but the religious ceremony will be performed at the akhada itself by following the social distancing norms. Many Hindu families in the vicinity will visit the akhada on Muharram for the blessings.”
Asad Kalyani, president of Surat City tazia Committee told TOI, “Boharjiwala tazia is the oldest tazia of Surat. Every year, the tazia procession has 300-350 tazias of different size and shape and the number 1 starts with this historical one.”
“Since 1835, this is the first time that the Bohrajiwala tazia will not be taken out due to prevailing situation. We have decorated the tazia, like we do every year. Majlis has been organised at the Imman khana at Momnawad and people will be allowed to participate with the observance of social distancing” added Zahir.