(22 Mar 2015) Sufi muslims in Kosovo marked the beginning of spring and the birth of revered Islamic figure, Ali, on Saturday, with a traditional dervish ritual.
The Sufi men in Kosovo's western town of Gjakove dressed in white robes to celebrate Nowruz, which marks the vernal equinox as well as being the start of the Iranian New Year.
The ritual is performed to the beat of a drum and often involves flesh piercing.
The faithful, known as dervishes, followed the instruction of congregation leader Sheikh Ruzhdi.
The dervishes dance in circles to rhythmic chants and beats until they reach a state of trance.
Sufis incorporate elements of dance and music into their celebrations - a contrast to many Muslim traditions in other countries.
Kosovo is overwhelmingly Muslim.
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