INCREDIBLE images show devout Muslims using knives to cut open their heads during a traditional show of faith.
Every year, thousands of Shia worshippers take part in the ceremonies, performed to mourn the death of Husayn ibn Ali, a grandson of the Prophet Mohammed.
The commemorations take place on Ashura, the tenth day of the first month of the Islamic calendar.
They mark Husayn's death at the Battle of Karbala, fought between Husayn and Yazid I on October 10 680AD to determine who should succeed the prophet as the leader of Islam.
Yazid is considered a tyrant by some Muslims, and Husayn's death is considered by the Shia community to be a symbol of humanity's struggle against injustice, tyranny, and oppression.
The anniversary is a national holiday in Afghanistan, Iran, Iraq, Lebanon, Bahrain, and Pakistan, and typically involves public expressions of mourning.
Some Muslims mark the day with the practice of Tatbir, in which a sword are scourge is used to draw blood in remembrance of the innocent blood of Husayn.
Many who take part in the practice believe it cleanses them of their sins.
A popular saying among Shia Muslims has it that "a single tear shed for Husayn washes away a hundred sins".
The ritual, which is sometimes carried out on children, is controversial within the Muslim world, with some research suggesting it can cause lasting psychological damage.
Many clerics also consider it to be self harm, which is "haram" – forbidden – in Islam.
Others worry that the practice creates a negative image of their faith.
Worshippers are instead encouraged to donate blood, with some communities organising donation drives with organisations like the Red Cross.
Other rituals carried on Ashura include mourning processions, recitations of mournful poetry, and services in which the history of the Battle of Karbala is retold.
In some countries, notably Iran and Iraq, plays are also performed reenacting the battle.
In others, it is customary for mosques to provide free meals to all people during the remembrance.
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