Paper Title
THE ROLE RELIGIOUS INSTITUTION OF ASHUR KHANAS - UNDER THE QUTB- SHAHIS-A HISTORICAL STUDYAbstract
cultural landscape of the Deccan. Established primarily for the observance of Muharram and other Shia rituals, these institutions were central to the propagation of Shia beliefs and practices in Golconda. Patronized by the Qutb Shahi rulers, who were staunch adherents of Shi’ism, Ashur Khanas became focal points for communal gatherings, religious discourses, and mourning processions commemorating the martyrdom of Imam Hussain. These institutions not only served as places of worship but also functioned as centers of social cohesion, where people from various strata of society participated in rituals. The architectural grandeur of Ashur Khanas, with their intricate stucco work, calligraphy, and Persian influences, reflects the deep devotion and royal patronage they received. The famous Badshahi Ashur Khana in Hyderabad, built by Sultan Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah, stands as a testimony to the spiritual and cultural significance of these institutions. The rituals conducted in Ashur Khanas, including the recitation of marsiyas (elegies) and majlis (religious assemblies), reinforced the spiritual and emotional connection of the populace with the tragic events of Karbala.
The Qutb Shahi rulers not only provided financial support for the maintenance of these institutions but also facilitated the influx of scholars, poets, and religious figures who enriched the intellectual and literary traditions associated with Shi’ism. These institutions played a crucial role in shaping the identity of the Shia community in the Deccan, fostering a distinct religious and cultural milieu that endured beyond the fall of the dynasty. The intertwining of politics and religion in the patronage of Ashur Khanas underscores their significance in the broader historical and socio-political context of the Qutb Shahi period. The influence of these institutions continued even under later rulers, highlighting their enduring legacy in Deccan history.
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