Ta'zieh on Ashura
The Ta'zieh is a prevalent religious event that takes place on the 10th day of Muharram (Day of Ashura) every year, in Iran and other Islamic countires. Ashura is a historically significant day for Shia Muslims because that was the day of Hussein's slaughter. Each year the same story is told, so the spectators know the story very well and know what to expect. However, this does not negatively affect audience levels. In fact, the Ta'zieh welcomes large crowds, and the audience members are known to cry each time the story is told in mourning and respect for Hussein.
In this event, there is a symbolic use of colors and in this collection those colors have been emphasized. Green is a sacred color among Shia muslims and a symbol of faith, excellence and, heaven, worn by Hussein and other holy personalities. Yellow symbolizes eternity and immorality and in ritual displays it is used to show doubt and uncertainty. Hussein's enemies are uncertain, however, after hearing his speech, some start to believe in him. Red color represents cruelty and hostility and it is used to show Hussein's enemies.
The location of pictures is Hasanlu Hill, which is an archeological site of an ancient city located in northwest Iran, West Azerbaijan Province. This place is the most popular spot for Ta'ziye in the region, and many people gather at this place each year to watch this condolence theatre. The pictures were taken in December 2011.
Hasanlu Hill (Hasanlu Village), Naghadeh, Iran - December 2011
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