TEHRAN – Every Muharram, hundreds of foreign nationals flock to Iran to experience its profound mourning traditions firsthand despite the language barrier.

Throughout the first ten days of the lunar month, numerous mourning rituals pay tribute to Imam Hussein (AS) and his loyal companions, martyred in the tragic Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. Celebrated with exceptional grandeur, these rituals hold a revered place in the hearts of the Iranian people. Each unique ritual conveys profound messages of sacrifice, justice, and devotion.

The zenith of Muharram observances is Ashura, the tenth day of the lunar month, marked by large gatherings at mosques and religious centers.

Below is a selection of Muharram rituals:

Ta’zieh

One of the notable Muharram rituals is Ta’zieh, now a UNESCO-listed element, where participants reenact the tragic events of Karbala, expressing their grief and devotion through mournful chants and chest-beating rituals.

Inscribed on UNESCO’s List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2010, Ta’zieh is a dramatic portrayal of the events of Ashura, drawing locals and tourists alike.

Ta’zieh holds a significant place in Iranian culture, with its solemn performances evoking deep emotions and reflections on the sacrifice of Imam Hussain and his companions. Through elaborate costumes, music, and storytelling, Ta’zieh brings to life the bravery and tragedy of Karbala, allowing spectators to immerse themselves in the historical narrative and spiritual significance of Muharram.

Nakhl Gardani

Nakhl Gardani, where devotees carry symbolic structures resembling Imam Hussain’s coffin, is accompanied by rhythmic chants and solemn hymns, embodying the enduring legacy of martyrdom in Shia Islam. Nakhl, meaning “palm tree” in Persian, serves as a symbol of Imam Hussain’s coffin, embodying the tragic events of Karbala. Historians suggest that the ritual derives its name from the tradition of carrying Imam Hussain’s body on palm leaves to his final resting place. This ritual is predominantly observed in regions like central Yazd province.

The Nakhl itself is a massive wooden structure resembling a leafy palm tree adorned with intricate decorations, including mirrors, knots, and flowers, often prepared days in advance. During the ceremony, strong men lift and carry the bulky Nakhl in a procession reminiscent of a funeral march while mourners beat their chests and recite heartfelt elegies.

Mash’al Gardani

Mash’al Gardani, a stirring ritual observed in various cities like Tehran and Qom, envelops you in a mesmerizing display of light and sound. Men carry torches mounted on a structure, spinning them overhead in a rhythmic dance of flames while chanting elegies and beating their chests. Against the backdrop of the night sky, the swirling flames illuminate the darkness, symbolizing the enduring flame of Imam Hussain’s legacy and the community’s unwavering commitment to justice and righteousness.

Shah Hussain Gouyan

In the northwestern province of East Azarbaijan, particularly in Tabriz, the ritual of Shah Hussain Gouyan (meaning “calling King Hussein”) emerges as a deeply ingrained Muharram tradition. Men, holding long sticks, line up in orderly queues, their hands placed on the backs of those before them, moving in a slow, rhythmic march. With each step, they take their sticks from their heads to their feet, chanting the name of Imam Hussein (AS). This procession, reminiscent of a military parade, symbolizes the readiness of mourners to stand alongside the Imam in the battle of Karbala.

Karbzani

In Gilan province, northern Iran, you’ll encounter the tradition of Karbzani, a heartfelt tribute to Imam Hussain during Muharram. Mourners gather in an orderly procession, each carrying a pair of cylindrical wooden instruments known as “karb” in the local Gilaki language. Instead of traditional chest-beating, these mourners strike the karbs together, producing a somber melody evocative of sorrow and lamentation. Karbzani is a powerful expression of allegiance to the Imam, resonating deeply within the local communities and recognized as an integral part of Iran’s intangible cultural heritage.

Tasht-Gozari

The Tasht-Gozari ritual, which translates to "laying a wash-tub," symbolizes the vital significance of water, reminiscent of the water blockade faced by the third Shia Imam and his followers in the Battle of Karbala. The ceremony, part of the broader mourning traditions observed during the lunar month of Muharram, commences following the noon prayers and continues until the call to Maghrib prayers, drawing participation from various mourning groups from different neighborhoods. Tasht-Gozari is not only a remembrance of the sacrifices made by Imam Hussein (AS) but also serves as a reminder of the principles of justice, equality, and sacrifice he stood for.

Gel Mali

Gel Mali, a unique ritual practiced in Lorestan province, offers a deep expression of grief and mourning for Imam Hussein. Participants rub mud and dust on their heads and bodies, symbolizing desperation and sorrow for the loss of a loved one. As sermons and chanting commence, the rhythmic chest-beating intensifies, echoing the collective anguish and lamentation of the community.

The ritual, held in main squares like Khorramabad, embodies the deep emotional connection and reverence for Imam Hussain’s sacrifice, inviting you to witness the profound expressions of devotion and solidarity among the faithful.

Nazri

Nazri, a generous tradition rooted in Persian culture, offers visitors a taste of hospitality and devotion during Muharram. As you walk through the streets, you’ll encounter stalls offering sweet drinks, fresh tea, and local dishes, all provided free of charge as a pledge to the martyred Imam.

This act of giving reflects the belief that sharing food in honor of Ashura martyrs carries healing blessings, inviting you to partake in the communal spirit of compassion and generosity. Among the dishes served, Khoresh Qeymeh, a hearty stew of cooked lamb with split peas and rice, stands out as a symbol of nourishment and solidarity during this solemn month.

Sham-e Ghariban

Sham-e Ghariban, an evocative ritual observed in the evening and night of Ashura, immerses you in a solemn atmosphere of remembrance and mourning. As candles flicker in the darkness, people gather to lament the plight of orphan children whose tents were set ablaze by their enemies, leaving them forsaken and alone.

Burning a tent on the 10th day of mourning symbolizes this tragic event, while lighting candles in the moonlight highlights the community’s solidarity and compassion. Sham-e Ghariban invites passersby to reflect on the resilience and courage of those who endured hardship and persecution for the sake of truth and righteousness.

In addition, there are many other rituals observed across the country to cherish and preserve the legacy of Imam Hussain (AS).

AM