Millions of mourners across Iran joined processions on Tuesday to observe Arbaeen, which commemorates the 40th day after the martyrdom of Imam Hussein (PBUH), with symbolic walks held in cities, towns, and villages from north to south for those unable to travel to Karbala.
In the capital, mourners from all over Tehran participated in a 13-kilometer procession, walking from Imam Hussein (PBUH) Square in the city center to the holy shrine of Hazrat Abdol Azim al-Hassani (PBUH) in Rey.
The annual event brought together individuals from all walks of life—families, youth, the elderly, and children—many of whom carried black mourning flags and chanted elegies in memory of Imam Hussein (PBUH).
Volunteers, charities, and religious organizations set up over 3,500 service pavilions along the route, providing pilgrims with free meals, drinking water, refreshments, medical care, accommodation, and other essential services throughout the day.
In recent years, the Tehran procession has become a significant tradition for Arbaeen, especially among those who refer to themselves as the “left behind” because they were unable to make the journey to Iraq. For these devotees, walking symbolically to Rey is a demonstration of their devotion to Imam Hussein (PBUH) and the principles of sacrifice and justice for which he stands.
Similar scenes unfolded across the country. In Mashhad, vast crowds marched on foot toward the holy shrine of Imam Reza (PBUH), with main access roads closed to traffic and thousands of service stations lining the routes.
In Qom, mourners walked to the shrine of Hazrat Masoumeh (PBUH), while in Shiraz, processions converged on the shrine of Shah Cheragh (PBUH).
In Isfahan, Tabriz, Ahvaz, Kerman, Yazd, and Rasht, designated city-center routes were filled with black-clad participants, many beating their chests and reciting lamentations.
In smaller towns and rural districts, local mourning ceremonies and symbolic walks were held at mosques, Hussainiyas, and sacred sites.
Across all locations, volunteer-staffed pavilions distributed free food, water, and medical aid to participants. Organizers nationwide reported a significant increase in domestic participation this year, driven by the growing tradition of local Arbaeen marches for those unable to travel to Karbala.
Arbaeen, a national holiday in Iran, is one of the holiest observances for Shiite Muslims worldwide. It honors the sacrifice of Imam Hussein (PBUH), who was martyred along with his loyal companions in the Battle of Karbala in 680 AD after refusing to pledge allegiance to the Umayyad ruler Yazid.
Meanwhile, millions of pilgrims from Iran and dozens of other countries have gathered in the Iraqi holy city of Karbala for the main Arbaeen pilgrimage at the shrine of Imam Hussein (PBUH).
Widely regarded as the world’s largest annual religious gathering, the event attracts millions of participants each year, including Muslims and followers of other faiths, who come together to pay tribute to the enduring legacy of the Imam.
Source: IRNA