The holy city of Karbala is experiencing extraordinary spiritual moments as the events of the Arbaeen pilgrimage unfold. Its streets and entrances are witnessing a steady flow of Hussaini mourning and service processions arriving from various countries around the world, in a powerful humanitarian scene that reflects the unity of nations under the banner of Imam Hussain (peace be upon him).
This year, international processions have arrived from Iran, Pakistan, India, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Oman, China, Germany, and Sweden, along with others from different Arab and foreign countries. They participate in serving the pilgrims through food and drink processions, medical and guidance teams, and religious and cultural activities that showcase the heritage and traditions of their respective nations.
Along the pilgrimage routes leading to Karbala, these processions set up tents adorned with Hussaini flags. The air is filled with elegies and chants in multiple languages, from Persian, Urdu, and English to German and Chinese, creating a unique human mosaic that unites hearts despite differences in language and background.
Volunteers work around the clock to provide meals and drinks, as well as rest areas, sleeping accommodations, and first-aid services for pilgrims walking hundreds of kilometers on foot.
The Arbaeen pilgrimage, which marks forty days since the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (peace be upon him) in the Battle of Karbala in 61 AH, has in recent decades become a global event attracting millions of visitors annually. Several international institutions have classified it as the largest peaceful human gathering in the world.
The participation of foreign processions is considered a vital aspect of this occasion, as each group brings with it a part of its country’s culture and integrates it into the Hussaini service. This enriches the global character of the pilgrimage and embodies a message of tolerance and solidarity among nations.
Karbala is expected to witness peak crowds in the coming days as the Arbaeen date draws near, with millions of pilgrims filling the roads to the city. They continue their journey in a deeply spiritual atmosphere, renewing their pledge to the values of justice and sacrifice for which Imam Hussain (peace be upon him) gave his life.
Pictures: Murtada Al-Asadi
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