Iran marks Tassua and Ashura

Millions of Muslims in Iran observed Tasua on August 7, the ninth day of the lunar month of Muharram, which leads the holiday of Ashura, the day when Imam Hossein (AS), the third Shiite Imam, was martyred.

During the first ten days of Muharram, Shiite Muslims around the world commemorate the martyrdom anniversary of Imam Hossein (AS), the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Cities like Tehran during the Arabic lunar month drape in the colors of black and red to mark the event, with flags often replaced with with the “Ya Hussein” symbol.

Today, the ninth day of Muharram (Tasua), millions of people, dressed in black, took to the streets and mosques across Iran to mourn the tragedy.

The annual commemoration is held in different regions of the world in various mourning rituals.

Tasua comes a day before Ashura, which marks the day when Imam Hossein, along with 72 of his companions, was martyred in the battle against the second Umayyad caliph in the Iraqi region of Karbala, some 14 centuries ago.

For Shiite Muslims, Ashura symbolizes the eternal struggle of truth against injustice.

On Tasua and Ashura, Shiite Muslims in Iran and other countries hold special ceremonies in line with their local traditions to mourn the martyrdom of Imam Hussein (AS).

All government departments, services and business remain closed for the long weekend, with only local corner shops available and takeaway deliveries.

If you are visiting Tehran during this time, don’t be perturbed if you are unfamiliar with the events as it has a “somber carnival like atmosphere” as one reader told us about their experience.

Regular working hours return on Tuesday this year.