Iranians across the country have begun the mourning ceremonies for Muharram 2020 under strict protections as the country has announced restrictions on traditional crowded gatherings due to the new coronavirus outbreak.

Holy shrines and some major mosques hold mourning ceremonies for a limited 2-hour gathering under special considerations to enhance protection of participants and communities.


 
Shia Muslims across the globe mark the first ten days of Muharram to commemorate the sacrifice of the third Shia Imam, Imam Hussein (AS) and his companions who rose against the tyrant ruler of the time, Yazid ibn-Muawiyah back in 680 AD.

This year however certain number of people is admitted to the gatherings so that a social distancing of at least 1.5 meters is maintained.
 


 
According to the protocols announced by World Health Organization, wearing masks is mandatory to the gatherings which are held for only 2 hours.
 
Temperature screening is observed at the entrance to the ceremony for utmost protection of participants and prevention of spreading the infection.


 
People are also recommended to hold house ceremonies among families and campaigns have launched for individual or family-size ceremonies in each house.