Muharram Teachings: Prosper Through Purposeful Derivatives Trading 

Tradition Meets Trade: Uncovering Market Potential 

The city of Hyderabad stood still in solemn reverence. It was the 10th day of Muharram, the day of Ashura, a day of deep mourning and spiritual significance for Shia Muslims. Streets were adorned with black banners, and thousands of devotees marched from Dabeerpura Flyover toward Alawa-e-Sartouq Mubarak (Darushafa). The air resonated with chants of “Ya Hussain!” as mourners beat their chests in rhythm, paying homage to the martyrs of Karbala. 

In the midst of the procession, two cousins Zaid and Sameer walked side by side. Both in their early 30s, the two shared a strong familial bond but vastly different views when it came to finance. Sameer, an experienced financial analyst, recently returned to Hyderabad after a stint in Mumbai. Zaid, a devout man who worked at his family’s carpet store in the old city, was just beginning to explore the world of investing. 

Zaid walked quietly beside his cousin. His eyes were on the road ahead, but his mind wandered elsewhere. 

After a pause, he finally spoke. “Sameer bhai, things have been getting tighter at home. My daughter’s school fees just went up, and Abba’s medical bills keep piling up. I want to start investing to create something more for the future… but I don’t have a lot to put in. Every time I think about investments, it just feels out of reach.” 

Sameer turned toward him with a knowing smile. “Zaid, that’s exactly why I always recommend derivatives trading. You don’t need a large sum to get started. With a relatively small investment, you can control a much larger position and if you trade wisely, the potential for profit is real.” 

Zaid looked surprised. “Really? I always thought that was only for big investors or full-time traders.” 

Sameer chuckled. “Not at all. I’ve been in derivatives trading for years. It’s how I built my strategy—low capital, smart leverage. It’s not about throwing money around; it’s about knowing how the market moves and using that knowledge to your advantage.” 

Zaid turned to his cousin, his voice barely rising above the prayer chants. “Sameer bhai, but isn’t it really as risky as people say?” 

Sameer smiled, adjusting his black kurta as they walked past Chaderghat, the crowds growing thicker. “Zaid, that’s a fair concern. Yes, derivatives trading has its risks, but if used wisely, it can be an incredibly profitable tool. The key is understanding, not fearing, it.” 

Zaid raised an eyebrow. “But what exactly is it? I’ve heard words like futures, options… it all sounds complicated.” 

Sameer nodded, stopping for a moment as the Ziarat Ashura was recited over loudspeakers nearby. After a moment of silence, he began, “Think of derivatives trading as a way of making predictions based on the movement of a stock or commodity. You’re not buying the asset itself—you’re trading based on its price movement.” 

Practical Profits: The Power of Derivatives Trading 

Zaid looked intrigued. “So, it’s like betting on where the market is headed?” 

“In a sense, yes,” Sameer replied. “But it’s not gambling when done with logic and research. Let me give you an example. Last month, I bought a put option on a major IT stock. I predicted it would drop due to poor earnings. It did, and I profited without even owning the stock.” 

Zaid listened intently as they walked under the Dabeerpura Flyover, the drums echoing through the archways. “But can someone like me do it? I don’t have your kind of training.” 
 
Sameer placed a hand on his Zaid’s shoulder, “If you have the confidence and the right strategy, I’m sure you’ll be successful,” he assured. 

Why Derivatives? Protection, Leverage, and Strategy 

Zaid looked thoughtful. “But why would someone choose derivatives trading over regular investing?” 

“Great question,” Sameer said. “Because derivatives trading offers something rare: leverage and protection. With a small investment, you can control a large position. You can also hedge your current investments. Let’s say your portfolio has tech stocks. You can buy a derivative that profits if tech drops—that way, you’re protected either way.” 

As they passed Darushafa, nearing the end of the procession, Zaid’s interest deepened. “So, it’s not just about profit, it’s about balance and protection.” 

“Exactly,” Sameer said with a nod. “It’s like the lessons we remember during Muharram. Imam Hussain stood for strategy, foresight, and sacrifice. He didn’t fight blindly, he acted with wisdom. That’s the essence of derivatives trading, too. You don’t jump in without a plan. You make informed, disciplined decisions.” 

A New Journey: From Reflection to Action

Zaid chuckled. “You’re making it sound almost spiritual.” 

“It is, in a way,” Sameer replied. “Just like we reflect during Muharram on the balance of faith and reason, trading derivatives requires you to be rational but also courageous. It teaches patience and respect for risk.” 

As they arrived at Alawa-e-Sartouq Mubarak, surrounded by devotees mourning the sacrifice at Karbala, the cousins sat under the shade of an old neem tree. The chanting slowed, and silence fell for a moment of collective prayer. 

Zaid turned to Sameer. “Alright bhai, you’ve convinced me. I’ll explore derivatives trading but only if you help me get started on the right path.” 

Sameer smiled. “Of course. That’s where Navia App comes in. I’ve been trading with them for almost a decade now. Navia makes derivatives trading simple, even for beginners. You can access charts, set up risk controls, and get real-time analysis. And with zero brokerage and easy onboarding, it’s beginner friendly.”  
Zaid was fascinated, “Really? This is what I need, I’m curious to explore the app now!” 

We’ll open your account on the Navia App tonight. I’ll walk you through futures, options, and hedging strategies. And remember, just like Muharram teaches us—approach everything with humility, knowledge, and a strong moral compass.” 

Zaid nodded. “Deal. This Muharram, I’ll mourn with meaning and invest with intention.” 

And with that, as the final Ziarat echoed in the courtyard, a new chapter of reflection, growth, and financial awareness quietly began for two Hyderabadi brothers, bonded not just by blood, but by a shared pursuit of wisdom in both faith and finance. 

“Ya Hussain, and smart investing with Navia!” they whispered, as the crowd began to disperse, and the city returned to its contemplative rhythm. 

Do You Find This Interesting?

DISCLAIMER: Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing. The securities quoted are exemplary and are not recommendatory. Brokerage will not exceed the SEBI prescribed limit.