President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have appealed to the entire nation, especially religious scholars, media and the youth, to highlight the true message of Ashura and promote inter-sectarian respect and harmony.

In his message on Ashura, 10th Muharram, President Zardari said the incident of Karbala is not merely a historical tragedy but an eternal message and a living source of guidance.

Separately, PM Shehbaz said Ashura is undoubtedly a thought-provoking day in Islamic history, which enlightens humanity with unparalleled lessons of faith, patience, perseverance and selflessness.

Shehbaz said Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) through his conduct, proved that sacrificing life for the protection of truth, justice and human dignity is indeed superior to submitting to oppression, injustice and falsehood.

Youm-e-Ashur, the tenth of Muharram-ul-Haram, is being observed solemnly across the country today to honour the supreme sacrifice of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) and his companions at Karbala. Tight security measures have been put in place to protect mourning processions and gatherings.

Processions are underway in numerous cities and towns. Religious scholars and zakireen will highlight the teachings of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) and various aspects of the Karbala tragedy. Taazia and Zuljanah processions are being held to commemorate the martyrs of Karbala and underline their unparalleled sacrifice.

In many places replicas of the Alam and Zuljanah are being carried amid stringent security arrangements.