President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday called upon the nation to draw inspiration from the enduring message of Karbala, urging people to uphold the values of truth, justice, patience, sacrifice and moral courage exemplified by Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) and his companions.

In their separate messages on the occasion of Youm-e-Ashura, both leaders described the day as one of the most significant moments in Islamic history, offering timeless lessons of perseverance, steadfastness, righteousness and resistance against oppression.

President Zardari said that while Ashura commemorates several important historical events, its most profound significance lies in the supreme sacrifice rendered by Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA), along with members of the Ahl-e-Bait and their loyal companions in the plains of Karbala.

He described the tragedy of Karbala as more than a historical event, calling it a living lesson and an enduring message for humanity. The president said Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) demonstrated that every sacrifice can be made for the protection of truth, justice, integrity and human dignity, but one should never bow before falsehood, tyranny and injustice.

The prime minister said Ashura serves as a timeless reminder of faith, patience, sacrifice, truthfulness and social reform. He noted that the supreme sacrifice of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) and his devoted companions had given Ashura a unique and everlasting significance in Islamic history.

He said the tragedy of Karbala conveys a powerful message that adherence to principles and values forms the foundation of a dignified and civilised society. He said Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) proved through his conduct that sacrificing for truth, justice and human dignity is far superior to submitting to oppression and falsehood.

Highlighting the broader lessons of Karbala, Shehbaz said the historic event symbolises efforts for the reform of the Muslim Ummah and the promotion of virtue while discouraging wrongdoing.