Ashura, meaning 10th, is the 10th day of Muharram, the first month in the Islamic year. It is a major festival for Shia Muslims, who commemorate the death of Hussein, the grandson of Muhammad, through public mourning. Some flagellate themselves to feel connected with Hussein’s suffering and death.
Many Shia make a pilgrimage to Karbala, Iraq where it is believed Hussein’s tomb is located.
Among Sunnis, the day is spent in voluntary fasting.
