Millions commemorate Arbaeen across India and Middle East

Millions of Shia Muslims have gathered around the world to commemorate Arbaeen, the end of the annual 40-day mourning period for the killing of Imam Hussein, Prophet Muhammed’s grandson, in the seventh century. Over 21 million pilgrims flocked to the Iraqi city of Karbala, where Imam Hussein and his brother Abbas are buried, to participate in the commemorations. Smaller, but still significant gatherings happened in Kashmir and Tehran, with the latter seeing an appearance by Ayatollah Khamenei, defying rumors of ill health.

Worshipers participated in the traditional rituals of Arbaeen, with massive processions, reciting of the Ziyarat (a traditional prayer) and displays of self-flagellation, or Tatbir. Those who practiced Tatbir could be seen hitting themselves with blades attached to chains and cutting their own heads open with swords. Tatbir is, however, a controversial practice, and is banned by many clerics.