Every year Shia Muslims commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussein. For ten days the people mourn the death of the Imam, grandson of the Prophet Mohammed, his family and followers who were slain in the battle of Karbala in the year 680. 

Shia Muslims find in Muharram a release, an experience that strengthens their sense of righteous belonging to their faith and a profound sadness at the evil of the world. It is a act of a whole community and is said to strengthen their faith and bonds their community together. A shared act of suffering and mourning.

Read more about this shoot on my photo blog