Elephant Confirmed for Bibi Ka Alam Muharram Procession in Hyderabad 2025

Bibi Ka Alam (Muharram) Hyderabad 2025

Hyderabad, July 4 – After days of uncertainty and multiple setbacks, organisers of the historic Bibi Ka Alam procession in Hyderabad have successfully arranged for an elephant to lead the Yaum-e-Ashura (10th Muharram) procession, which will take place on Sunday, July 7. The elephant, Lakshmi, belongs to Sri Karibasava Swamy Mutt in Tumkur, Karnataka, and is expected to reach Hyderabad late Friday night.

The Bibi Ka Alam procession, which begins at Bibi Ka Alawa in Dabeerpura, is a significant religious event in Hyderabad’s Muharram commemorations. The tradition of carrying the Alam (standard) on a caparisoned elephant dates back to the 17th-century Golconda era, and has been a central part of the city’s Shia Muslim heritage.

Earlier attempts to bring an elephant named Joymoti from Delhi were thwarted when the Telangana Forest Department denied permission, citing animal welfare concerns and transportation limitations. In its official letter, the department said, “Keeping the safety and well-being of the elephant in view, permission cannot be granted for transport of the elephant from New Delhi to Hyderabad.”

In response, organisers scrambled to arrange an alternative. After exploring several options in different states, they finally received clearance from Karnataka’s forest authorities to transport Lakshmi for the procession.

Due to delays in securing an elephant, the trial run, which is customarily held on the 4th or 5th of Muharram, could not be conducted this year. Organisers have indicated it may be skipped entirely due to the time crunch.

In previous years, elephants like Hyderi, Rajani, and Hashmi have carried the sacred Alam during the procession. After legal restrictions on captive elephants were introduced, the HEH Nizam Trust and local Shia organisations began sourcing elephants from other states.

Meanwhile, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) has renewed its appeal to end the use of live elephants in religious events. In a letter to the organisers, PETA urged the use of a realistic mechanical elephant that can mimic the movements of a live animal. “These lifelike elephants can shake their heads, swish tails, and lift trunks, offering a humane and sustainable alternative,” the letter stated.

As preparations continue, all eyes are now on Sunday’s procession, which is expected to draw thousands of devotees and visitors.