Nazri, ritual of mourning in Muharram

The distribution of Nazri (votive) food is one of the rituals in the mourning month of Muharram.

During Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar, Shia Muslims commemorate the martyrdom anniversary of Imam Hussein (AS), the third Shia Imam and grandson of Prophet Mohammad [PBUH].

The mourning ceremonies reach a climax on Ashura, the tenth day of the month on which Imam Hussein (AS) was martyred.

The imam was martyred along with 72 of his companions during the Battle of Karbala, in southern Iraq, some 14 centuries ago.

Iranians hold mourning processions across the country to observe the martyrdom anniversary of Imam Hussein (AS) during Muharram, while benefactors distribute free food, known as Nazri.

In the mourning month, groups of people take part in preparing food such as the popular stews Gheymeh, which is made of beef and split pea, and Ghormeh Sabzi -- a herb, beans and meat stew, and other dishes such as Ash Reshteh, which is a thick soup, and distributing them.

Some people also serve free tea, while others serve desserts such as Sholezard, a saffron rice pudding.

SQ/MG