People in Yazd decorating ‘Nakhl’ for Muharram

People have been decorating ‘Nakhl’ in Yazd Province for ‘Nakhl-Gardani’ ritual in Muharram.

One of the Muharram mourning rituals, held in Yazd annually is Nakhl Gardani. People in Yazd Province prepare the ancient Nakhl, a wooden structure resembling a bridal pavilion and decorated with colorful silk shawls, precious fabric, mirrors, lanterns, to lift and carry it across the city.

While carrying in different parts of the city, the eulogists narrate the Ashura event and the life story of Imam Hussein (AS) and his companions.

Yazd is considered as one of the most crowded cities of Iran during the day of Ashura. It is known as Iran’s Hussainieh (a congregation hall for Shia Muslim commemoration ceremonies, especially those associated with the Mourning of Muharram).

“Nakhl” means palm tree in Persian language, but Nakhl Gardani is not related to the palm tree. It is a symbol of the coffin of Imam Hussein (AS), which is used during his symbolic mourning rituals.

The historical ritual, starting some 450 years ago, won national heritage status in 2021.

Read more:

Iranians observe 500-year-old Muharram ritual in Fars

Tehran preparing for Muharram rituals

MG/MG