During Ramadan, Kirkukis play the traditional game Sinya (Sini Zerf)

During Ramadan, Kirkukis play the traditional game Sinya (Sini Zerf) Iraqis mark the holy month of Ramadan with a diverse array of unique traditions and social practices. They gather in courtyards and cafes after prayers and iftar, with families and friends sometimes until the early hours of morning. A popular activity in Kirkuk is Sinya, an age-old game where rival teams must find a hidden ring. Players strive to uncover a hidden ring, a dice or a coin under one of 11 miniature copper cups placed on a circular tray. The tray signifies the year, while each of the 11 cups represents a month - with the 12th cup missing as that would represent the month of Ramadan.

A UNAMI Public Information Office production

Photos and Video: Harith Al-Obaidi

Video editing: Sarmad Al-Safy