Azerbaijan, Baku, Jan. 7 / Trend , S.Kazimli/
A blood drive was held at the Azhdarbay Mosque in Baku on Ashura Day.
Some 124 people donated blood by midday, a Trend correspondent reported. Chairman of the Caucasus Muslims Clerical Board and All Caucasus Sheikh Haji Allahshukur Pashazade also donated a pint.
Pashazade said this year's celebration honors Imam Huseyn. He said that remembering Huseyn means remembering truth and struggle against oppression.
Speaking about the significance of Ashura Day in Azerbaijan, Pashazadze said the country was being occupied and thousands of Azerbaijani citizens have become victims of war.
"And so, our nation well understands what is true and untrue," Pashazadze said. "The government has instituted favorable conditions to allow religious individuals to celebrate this holiday. It is wrong to beat oneself with chains on Ashura Day. Islam does not believe in letting one's blood."
The blood drive was held at mosques and places for pilgrimages in Baku's Nardaran settlement.
Shiah Muslims mourn their imams on Ashura Day.
The Caucasus Muslims Clerical Board recommended that religious people donate blood instead of beating themselves with chains on Ashura Day. Underage children are prohibited from participating in the day's religious ceremonies.
Baku police up security on Ashura Day. Additional police forces are stationed near mosques to ensure public order.
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