Iranians prepare for Muharram mourning ceremonies

Iranians prepare for taking part in ceremonies held annually in the month of Muharram to mourn the anniversary of the martyrdom of Imam Hussein (AS), the third Shia Imam and his loyal companions in the Battle of Karbala.

Muharram is the first month in the Islamic calendar within which the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was martyred after standing against the then-tyrant Yazid.   

During the Muharram rituals, millions of Iranians commemorate the martyrdom anniversary of Imam Hussein (AS), by gathering in mosques and different religious venues. These ceremonies continue till the 40th day after the martyrdom (known as Arbaeen), until which Iranians avoid any type of personal or social celebration.

Muslims use some means to mark the tragic event, such as Ta'zieh (passion play), which is a dramatic presentation of events leading to and following Imam Hussein’s martyrdom.

Muharram mourning ceremonies have long been intertwined with Persian culture, and nothing could separate this spiritual heritage from the lives of Iranians.

This year’s Muharram mourning rituals would be different from previous years due to the pandemic.

Following are some pictures of Iranians in preparation for the month of Muharram.

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