Ashura is a religious festival of Islam, celebrated on the 10th day of the Muslim month of Muharram. The word ashura means simply tenth in Arabic language.

For Shi Muslims, the Ashura is a day of great mourning, and strong emotions are expressed in the many rituals and activities connected to this day.

The most important celebration is the flagellation by male Shi'is. Whips, often with sharp ends, or even small knives are used to make their backs bleed.

It is also celebrated among Sunni Muslims. They fast on Ashura. The day is considered to be the celebration of different historical incidents for muslims.