Date:01/09/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/09/01/stories/2006090110150300.htm

Kerala - Others

Uroos of `Malappuram Martyrs' from tomorrow

Staff Reporter

Held as a symbol of communal amity

MALAPPURAM: The 283rd anniversary Uroos of `Malappuram Martyrs' will be held at Valiyangadi Juma Masjid here on Saturday and Sunday. The Uroos has been held for decades as a symbol of communal amity in the region. People from different communities take part in the festivities.

The Uroos will begin with the recital of the Koran on Saturday morning at the graves of the 44 young men who died to protect the Juma Masjid nearly three centuries ago. Collectively called `Malappuram Martyrs,' they were immortalised by Mahakavi Moyinkutty Vaidyar in his epic poem `Malappuram Khissappattu.'

The Koran recital will continue till Sunday evening. A mass `ziyarat' and prayer will precede the valedictory function on Sunday evening. Malappuram Kazi O.P.M. Sayed Muthukoya Thangal will inaugurate the function. Islamic scholar Umer Baqavi will deliver the memorial speech. A mass food distribution will mark the finale of the Uroos.