Taking around candles for Imam Hossein (AS)

Religious ceremony of "Sham-Gardani" or "Taking around Candles" in Iranian province Ardebil is held to mark the martyrdom of Imam Hussein (AS). 

In the ritual, people in the northwestern Iranian province hold vigils for the martyrdom anniversary of the third Shia Imam (AS) along with his faithful companion in the Battle of Karbala.

After the Nakhl-Gardani ritual, people continue mourning and listening to the religious sermons. 

Below are some file photos depicting the historical ceremony held every Muharram for more than a thousand years in Ardebil Province.

AG/AG