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Massive explosion in Islamabad Imambara, more than 70 dead

Samira Vishwas | February 7, 2026 9:24 AM CST

Islamabad: A massive explosion took place in the Imambara of Islamabad in Pakistan, in which more than 70 people died. Most of the people are considering it as a blast in the mosque but it is different from that. Shia Muslims have been targeted in Pakistan. There has been a suicide attack on his religious place. Hearing the word Imambara, you might also be reminded of Lucknow. Let us know in this news what is the Imambara built in many cities from Lucknow to Islamabad, how is it different from the mosque.

Place to remember the martyrdom of Imam Hussain
Know that Majlis i.e. condolence meetings and Nauha i.e. condolence songs are organized by Shia Muslims during Muharram. The special hall or building for this is called Imambara. Imambara is also known as Imambargah or Ashoorkhana. This is a place to remember the martyrdom of Imam Hussain. Symbols to Imam Hussain are also kept here.

What is the structure of Imambara?
The Imambara is mainly used during the 10 days of Muharram to mourn the martyrdom of Imam Hussain. Talking about its structure, there is a big hall in the Imambara. It also has a room with a high platform called Shahnashin. Here the symbols of Imam Hussain i.e. brocade are kept decorated.

Why is Imambara of Lucknow famous?
Anyone can come to the Imambara. Entry is not given on the basis of religion or sect. Talking about the famous Imambara of Lucknow, the Nawabs of Awadh had built ‘Bada Imambara’ and ‘Chhota Imambara’ in Lucknow. The Bada Imambara here is famous for its labyrinth. You will find many such Imambaras in most of the cities of India, wherever people of Shia community live. Even in Pakistan, Imambaradas are built near the residences of Shia Muslims.

What is the difference between mosque and imambara?
Talking about the difference between Imambara and Mosque, while Mosque is used for offering Namaz, Imambara is mainly used for holding Majlis in the memory of Imam Hussain. Imambara is not only a religious center, but it is also considered to be the best example of architecture in Lucknow, India.