Shiites from all over the country gather in Karbala to honor Imam Hussein, who was beheaded in Karbala in 680 AD. The pilgrimage was barred under the regime of Saddam Hussein. (Wally Skalij / LAT)
More than a million people are believed to have traveled to Karbala Tuesday to honor Imam Hussein. (Wally Skalij / LAT)
A woman cries at the Holy Shrine of Imam Hussein as worshippers honor the man with prayers and festivities in Karbala. (Wally Skalij / LAT)
A man smokes a cigarette as he watches the celebration. (Wally Skalij / LAT)
A man honors Imam Hussein at a Shiite celebration. (Wally Skalij / LAT)
Water was provided for those who gathered in Karbala to honor Imam Hussein. (Wally Skalij / LAT)
Chains and self-infliction are a tradition for some Shiite groups who were honoring Imam Hussein in Karbala. (Wally Skalij / LAT)
