Alam (Processional Standard)

An alam (processional standard) is a religious object used by the Shi’a Muslim community on Ashura, the tenth day of Muharram. It is named after the Arabic term meaning ‘world’. It is a symbolic reference to the first Shi’a Imam Husain, grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, who was martyred at the battle of Karbala (c.680). 

An alam is typically made of brass, bronze and copper alloys, and is adorned with intricate designs and calligraphic inscriptions, often featuring religious symbols and sacred motifs.