Hyderabad readies for historic Bibi Ka Alam procession
HYDERABAD: The 432-year-old Bibi Ka Alam procession, one of Hyderabad’s oldest religious traditions, will pass through the city on June 26 as part of Muharram observances. The procession, which has continued every year since 1594, remains a symbol of Hyderabad’s shared cultural heritage despite changes in dynasties and governments.
Alam carries centuries of history and royal legacy
The Alam is associated with Bibi Fatima, the daughter of Prophet Muhammad. Historical accounts state that it contains a relic believed to be a piece of the wooden plank used during her final ablution. The relic was brought to Golconda during the Qutb Shahi period, and Hayat Bakshi Begum, daughter of Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah, established the Alam in Hyderabad in 1594 in her memory.
The Alam is adorned with diamonds, emeralds and other precious stones gifted by the Nizams. It remains under armed police protection throughout the year at Bibi Ka Alawa in Dabeerpura and is brought out only for the annual procession.
Security tightened for June 26 procession
The procession will begin from Dabeerpura, pass through Charminar and Gulzar Houz, and conclude at Chaderghat. Around 2,000 police personnel have been deployed to ensure security, with civic departments coordinating arrangements for the event.
This year, organisers have made special arrangements to bring an elephant from Kerala to carry the Alam during the procession.
The annual procession is widely regarded as a symbol of Hyderabad’s communal harmony and its Ganga-Jamuni tehzeeb, reflecting the city’s shared cultural traditions.
