Tazias of Baroda

For centuries, India has been setting examples of communal harmony and religious tolerance in the world. And even today this tradition is followed by the people of the country in their communities in their own small ways. Every year during Muharram, the Taziyas of Baroda bring to light one such tradition.

A Hindu Pandit and a Tazia

For over 150 years, Baroda has showcased its commitment to communal harmony and religious tolerance through unique traditions observed during Muharram. One such tradition involves the Tazia of Hakimwada in the Nagarwada area, which is “cooled down” by the priest of the Bahucharaji Temple. This practice began during the reign of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III. The Tazia, originally installed at Hakimwada, is notable for its distinctive treatment: rather than being immersed in a lake, it is doused with holy water, rose petals, and attars (scented oils) by the high priest. A coconut is then offered as a “Bhog” (offering) before the Tazia is taken to Sarasiya Talav for cooling down. This ritual exemplifies the deep-rooted tradition of mutual respect and integration among different communities.

Another Example of Harmony

The Tazia at the dargah of Zoravar Peer further illustrates Baroda’s communal unity. After Maharaja Sayajirao III established the first Tazia in the city, the installation of Tazias by the Yakutpura Muslim Panch began in 1880 and continues to this day. This Tazia has been visited by people from various communities, including Gujaratis, Marathis, and Parsis, reflecting their shared reverence for Zoravar Peer. The Maharaja himself is known to have visited the Tazia to offer prayers, setting a precedent that many locals have followed. The city’s diverse residents, united by their faith in Zoravar Peer, continue to honor this tradition with great respect.

Historic Silver Tazia

During the reigns of Maharaja Khanderao Gaekwad and Maharaja Malharrao Gaekwad, a massive six-foot-high Tazia made entirely of silver was established at the city’s Sarkarwada. The procession was a major royal event, and members of the Gaekwad royal family witnessed the festival and show their respect.

The celebration was highly inclusive, bringing together thousands of people from all castes, creeds, and backgrounds without any discrimination. The procession wove through historic neighborhoods of the city, including Barapura, Bavamanpura, Yakutpura, Baranpura, Navapura, Bheswada, and Patthargate. The tradition evolved further during the Gaekwad reign, when an Arab military unit was brought in and housed in a massive mansion known as the Gaekwadi Chamber in the city area. Two of Gaekwad’s own bodyguards, Jamumiya and Hamumiya, initiated a unique custom of establishing special ‘Mannat Tazia’ as a token of fulfilled vows, drawing massive, diverse crowds of onlookers.

Beyond its religious significance, the procession was famed for its displays of physical strength and athletic skill, deeply rooted in the state’s thriving martial culture. On the day of the procession, wrestlers and fighters from these schools would gather to perform incredible stunts and feats of strength, attracting huge crowds from all over the state at 22 active Akhadas of city. Spectators would enthusiastically reward these performers with a historic silver coin of the era known as the Babashahi Rupee, which was widely considered highly auspicious.

A Historic Celebration

In the Sarkarwada, the old palace of the Gaekwads, another example of harmonious celebration is found. The Ganesh idol and the Tazia were installed simultaneously, and both festivals were celebrated with grandeur. Ustad Faiyaz Khan, the legendary singer, performed the Mangala Aarti for Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, blending the festivities of both traditions. This illustrates the royal family’s embrace of both Hindu and Muslim celebrations, further enhancing Baroda’s reputation for communal harmony.

Addressing Conflicts

While occasional skirmishes may occur during Muharram, residents attribute these disturbances to individuals with vested interests rather than to the festival itself. Overall, the Tazias are welcomed with grace and reverence by people from all communities, reinforcing the city’s long-standing tradition of inclusivity and mutual respect.

Partial part of this post was written in collaboration with Ibrahim Jamadar, a direct descendant of Shah Radhanmiya Hamumiya Shah.