Iraqi Yazidis celebrate their New Year

It is a reminder of the power of faith and the strength of the human spirit in the face of hardship and persecution. The temple at Lalesh will continue to stand as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Yazidi people and their unique and ancient religion for generations to come.

Thousands of Yazidis celebrated their religious new year at the ancient Yazidi temple at Lalesh in northern Iraq on Tuesday evening, (19 April). New Year was on Wednesday, (20 April), but celebrations are held on the eve. Lalesh is the holiest Yazidi shrine in Iraq and in the world.