Iran celebrates the grand Eid of al-Ghadir

Muslims and devotees in Iran and other countries are celebrating Eid al-Ghadir, the most important festive occasion on the Islamic calendar.

Eid al-Ghadir marks the anniversary of the day when Prophet Muhammad (Blessings of God upon him and his progeny) named his cousin and son-in-law, Ali ibn Abi Talib (PBUH), as his successor and the head of the Muslim community.

Imam Ali was appointed by Prophet Muhammad at a location in the vicinity of Juhfa near Mecca, called Ghadir Khum. The occasion is marked every year at the end of the Hajj season.

Being an occasion for celebration, Eid al-Ghadir is viewed by Muslims as a chance to learn more about Imam Ali and the reason as to why he was named by the Prophet as the first Imam.

While all Imams are equally revered among Muslims, Imam Ali holds a special position in Islam as the father of Shia Islam and the symbol of Islamic justice.

Shia Muslims across the world celebrate the auspicious event annually with diverse customs.

In the capital Tehran, people have held a 10-kilometer celebration along the city’s longest street to pay homage to Imam Ali (PBUH), his sacred household and their faithful devotees.

Thousands of people living in the Iranian capital have taken part in the celebration, which has been organized to be a jovial event, including various forms of entertainment for children and adults, votive food, and musical performances.

MG