Millions converge on Karbala for Arba’een
Mahdi Abbasian
Press TV, Karbala
Millions of people from all over the world travel to the Iraqi city of Karbala every year to mark Arba’een.
That’s the 40th day after the martyrdom anniversary of Imam Hussein, the third Shia Imam and the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad. The pilgrims visit the shrine of Imam Hussein and his half-brother Abbas. This pilgrimage is one of the world’s largest religious gatherings.
A considerable number of pilgrims opt to travel on foot, starting their journey from the holy city of Najaf, the resting place of Imam Hussein’s father, Imam Ali. They then walk 80 kilometers to reach Karbala. Their love for Imam Hussein, who symbolizes freedom and justice in Islam, is the main motive that takes them through the hardships of this long journey.
To facilitate the pilgrimage, local volunteers as well as foreigner, set up Mawkibs, makeshift stalls and clinics along the roads to provide essentials such as food, water and healthcare.
There were reports of problems such as shortage of water and mistreatment of pilgrims. However, pilgrims’ experience was rather different.
This year despite lingering concerns about the coronavirus pandemic and political instability in Iraq, a massive number of pilgrims flocked to Karbala.
People from various countries with different backgrounds travel to Karbala for Arba’een. This shows that Imam Hussein doesn’t belong to a single community, nation or religion. Therefore, Arba’een has truly become a manifestation of unity and brotherhood.
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