23rd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Travel
The March of the Nakhl

Captured during the Ashura ceremony in the historic village of Mazinan, near Sabzevar, Iran. A massive wooden structure called a "Nakhl" (symbolizing the coffin of Imam Hussein) is carried by a sea of mourners. This ceremony is incredibly intense and fast-paced. The crowd moves with great speed and passion, kicking up dust as they carry the heavy symbol through the village, representing a moment of collective grief and unity.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 07.2025
Date Uploaded: 11.2025
Photo Location: Sabzevar, Iran
Camera: Canon EOS 5D Mark III
Copyright: © Seyyed Mostafa Yousefi