23rd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Travel
A Rooted Competition in the Heart of Nature
The story belongs to the Bakhtiari Lur horsemen, who during a festive ceremony place a piece of cloth on top of a stick in the center of an open field. The riders are then asked to grab the red cloth while galloping. This ritual has ancient roots and symbolizes the coming of age of tribal boys. Whoever succeeds in taking the red cloth receives a reward and is regarded as a worthy young man.
Photo Detail
| Date Taken: | 05.2025 |
| Date Uploaded: | 11.2025 |
| Photo Location: | Chaharmahal Bakhtiari, Kohrang Mountains, Iran |
| Camera: | Canon EOS 6D Mark II |
| Copyright: | © Shirkoo MAMAGHA |