Mourning flag hoisted in holy shrine of Imam Hussein (AS), Karbala (photo)

Iraqi people across the country have begun the mourning ceremonies for Muharram marking the martyrdom anniversary of Imam Hussein (AS), the third Shia Imam and grandson of Prophet Mohammad (PBUH) in the holy city of Karbala. Traditionally, a black flag is hoisted on top of the golden dome ahead of Muharram as the procession is held there for two months with the climax of the ceremonies held on ninth and tenth of Muharram.