Iranian Shia Muslims mourn the martyrdom of Imam Hussein in the northwestern city of Zanjan on November 12, 2013[/caption]Grief reigns supreme across Iran as millions of Muslims are holding mourning ceremonies to commemorate Tasua, the ninth day of the lunar month of Muharram.
Mourning services have been in place nationwide since the beginning of Muharram.
During Muharram, Iranian people across the country traditionally cook and distribute Nazri (charity food) among their neighbors, family and the poor. Free food is also offered to people who are participating in the mourning ceremonies.
They mark the anniversary of the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the third Shiite Imam, and 72 of his companions, who fell in a battle for justice against the second Umayyad caliph, Yazid I, in the Iraqi city of Karbala more than 14 centuries ago.
Imam Hussein and his companions were martyred on Ashura, the tenth day of Muharram, which falls on November 14 this year.
Muharram ceremonies symbolize the eternal and unwavering stance of truth against falsehood and humanitys struggle against tyranny, the cause for which Imam Hussein was martyred.
By Press TV
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