Muharram is the first month of the lunar Islamic calendar in which occurred the battle of Karbala. Muharram is one of the four sacred months of Islam and unlawful acts, such as fighting and bloodshed are forbidden during it. The tenth day of Muharram, which is known by The day of Ashura marks the martyrdom anniversary of Imam Hussein (PBUH) and 72 of his loyal companions. This festival is also celebrated as a cultural ceremony, not just a religious one. During this time, the Shiite don black attire and participate in mourning gatherings such as Ta’zieh, Nohe, Nakhl Gardani, Alam procession, Sham-e Ghariban etc. The death of Imam Hussein (PBUH) is considered by the Shia community as a symbol of humanity's struggle against injustice, tyranny and oppression.

It is like a food charity known as Nazri. Many Iranian people cook foods as Ghorme Sabzi, Shole zard in enormous copper pots over wood-burning fires, and then serve them for free.