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Stripes 05/11/2014

Thousands of residents gathered at events around Kabul on Monday to peacefully observe a holiday that has been marked by major attacks in the past.

The day of Ashura is a day of mourning to mark the death of Husayn ibn Ali, a significant figure for Shi’ites, in an ancient battle.

Residents of Kabul put up black, green, and red banners around the city, while booths provided free drinks and candy.

The most famous event of the day involves flagellation, during which men whip their bare backs with chains and blades to draw blood.

The practice has become increasingly controversial, with some leaders in Afghanistan urging believers to donate blood instead.

Past days of Ashura in Kabul have been marked by violence, notably in 2011 when an explosion killed 63 people at a shrine. But this year’s events went off peacefully for the most part.