Refugees celebrate Muslim holy day of Ashura

World Today

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In Iraq, many Muslims are celebrating the holy day of Ashura. With the rhythmic beating of the drum, the march of Shia Muslims began in Kirkuk, Iraq. Men of all ages, dressed in black commemorated the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, a grandson of the Prophet Mohammed who was killed during the battle of Karbala in the 7th century.

CCTV’s Michal Bardavid reports thousands in the city of Kirkuk are holding commemorations as refugees. Follow Michal Bardavid on Twitter @michal_bardavid

One group of men beat their chests with their fists another group flagellate themselves with chains a ritual observed to mourn Imam Hussein’s death as they carry flags with his picture and remember his suffering.

The event comes at a time when Iraq is facing other battles, many with ISIL.

Meanwhile, thousands of Iraqis are struggling to survive in refugee camps as they fled ISIL. Many are left at a camp in Dibaga is way more overcrowded people are finding shelter wherever they can men are sleeping on mattresses in Mosques within camps, while women and children are sleeping in hallways of schools. 


What does Ashoura mean to Shia and Sunni Muslim?