The Muharram mourning ceremonies are held across Iran commemorating the martyrdom anniversary of Imam Hussein (PBUH), the third Shia Imam.
Muharram is the month of the year on the Islamic lunar calendar when Shia Muslims mourn the martyrdom of Imam Hossein (PBUH), the Grandson of Prophet Muhammad., and his companions.


Being the first month of the Islamic New Year, Muharram holds great importance in Islam. The Battle of Karbala took place on Muharram 10th (AD 680/AH 61), when the forces of the second Umayyad caliph martyred Imam Hussein ibn Ali.

Muharram rituals are held all around the world where there are Shia Muslims. Shia Muslims start mourning from the first night of Muharram and continue for ten nights. Shia Muslims, hold special ceremonies during the first ten days of the lunar month of Muharram to commemorate the martyrdom anniversary of Imam Hussein (AS) and his 72 loyal companions.

Like other parts of the world where Shia Muslims hold some mourning ceremonies for the commemoration of Imam Hussein, Muharram mourning ceremonies are also held in all cities of Iran. During the days of Muharram mourning, the appearance of the cities and towns in Iran change dramatically and the streets are shrouded with black flags and banners. These days most people wear black or dark colors as a sign of their grief. Muharram and Ashura, the 10th day of Muharram, are from the most significant events in Iran.