What is the Muharram?

Muharram is the first month of the Islamic calendar and therefore the 1st day of the month marks the Islamic New year. Since the Islamic calendar is a lunar calendar, Muharram moves from year to year. Shia Muslims observe and respect Muharram as the month that martyred Hussein ibn Ali, the grandson of Muhammad and son of Ali, in the Battle of Karbala. They mourn for Hussein ibn Ali and refrain from all joyous events. 

Nakhl

Religious ceremonies in Iran have many traditions; Nakhl, the Nakhl is a symbol of Imam Hussein’s coffin, many people carrying the Nakhl throughout the ceremony is a form of bereavement and an instance of humbleness. Yazd and Taft are well-known for this tradition.

Zanjir-zani & Sineh-zani

Zanjir-zani & Sineh-zani, men flagellate their backs with two pairs of chains and beat their chests with open hand palms. This ritual is known as Zanjir-zani & Sineh-zani. Women may watch the processions and follow the parade; however, they do not practice flagellation.

Ta’ziyeh

The most important and popular of these commemorative performances are Ta'ziyeh, Ta’ziyeh is a theater which narrates the epic struggle and tragic martyrdom of Imam Hossein. Ta’ziyeh inscribed in on the representative cultural heritage of Iranians in UNESCO’s list. Year after year, more tourists show interest in watching this historical event and Tekkiyeh Tajrish is one of the best place for watching Ta’ziyeh.

Nazri

Religious ceremonies in Iran more than often include food offerings, whether they are held at public venues like mosques or at private residences. These communal gatherings are also a kind of forum where friends, acquaintances and neighbours meet over food that is served after the ceremonies. The most common dish is Gheymeh which includes a thick stew of split peas and chopped lamb cooked with dry lemons and tomato puree and served on a bed of hot saffron rice. Other dishes of Persian cuisine, like Aash (thick soup-stew), Halim (thick dish of wheat, lentil and meat), Shole Zard (a sweet dish made of rice), palm dates and sherbets are also served during these days.

Here is our link to our Muharram tour.