Kasnazani

The Kasnazani order is a Sufi order popular in Iraq and Iran, especially among the Kurds. It is a sub-order of the Qadiri order and is thought to be the largest order in Iraq. It makes no distinction between Sunni and Shia followers. The order is known for its rituals during which some of its adherents (dervishes) inflict wounds upon themselves, such as piercing their bodies, chewing blades or electrocuting themselves. It is also known for the music performed during the rituals using large drums ("daf").

External links

* [http://www.kasnazan.com/ Kasnazani Order website] (Arabic)
*" [http://www.wwrn.org/article.php?idd=18500&sec=33&con=34 Iraq Sunnis, Shi'ites unite to mortify the flesh] ] ", Reuters, 30 August 2005
*" [http://nina-lois.dubtribe.com/heartbreak-intolerance-of-all-night-dancers/ As Sunni Divisions Widen, Iraq's Sufis are Under Attach] ", New York Times, 21 August 2005
* [http://www.fanoosphoto.com/thumb.php?gallery_id=64&cat=photojornalism Photos of Kasnazani dervishes in Suleymaniya, Iraq]
* [http://youtube.com/watch?v=j4b33RWeEUc Video of a Kasnazani ritual gathering]