Millions gather in Karbala to commemorate Arba’een

Millions of Muslims from across the world have gathered in the city of Karbala to commemorate Arba’een, the 40th day after the martyrdom anniversary of Imam Hussein (AS).

People from at least 60 countries gathered in Karbala on Monday to pay tribute to the grandson and the third infallible successor of Prophet Muhammad (SAWA) and his faithful companions.

Monday marks the final day of the annual mourning ceremonies for Imam Hussein, which started on the first day of the lunar calendar month of Muharram.

During the first nine days of Muharram, mourning processions were held in anticipation of Ashura, the tenth day, when the Karbala tragedy happened.

Over the past few days, millions from Iraq, Pakistan, India, Iran, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, Azerbaijan, Turkey and elsewhere have been trekking a main road between Najaf and Karbala on foot to show their devotion. The two cities are more than 75 kilometers apart.

Each year, Sunni Muslims and followers of other religious groups such as Christians join the journey to mourn the martyrdom of Imam Hussein (AS).

SS