Thousands mark Afghan New Year

Children dance in the streets of Kabul.

The festivities are part of Nawroz - the Persian New Year which is celebrated in many countries in the region.

In Afghanistan's capital, thousands are gathered at a shrine for Prophet Ali -- the fourth Caliph of Islam.

(SOUNDBITE) (Dari) KABUL RESIDENT, ASSADULLAH, SAYING:

"Today is a glorious and grand day for the Afghan nation as well as being a big day for all Muslims around the world, in particular for the people of Afghanistan, and more so for the people of Kabul, who celebrate with pomp and love."

Nawroz is widely marked across Afghanistan, with national sites in the capital -- as well as in the province of Mazar-e-Sharif - being focal points for those who wish to take part.

But with violence in the country on the rise, fewer families have come out to celebrate than in previous years - a sign that many fear deadly attacks.

Travis Brecher, Reuters