Millions of Muslims from across the world started marching toward the Iraqi holy city of Karbala to perform the rituals of Arbaeen, one of the most revered religious occasions on the Islamic calendar.
The Arbaeen marks 40 days since Ashura, the day when Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, was martyred in the desert plains of Karbala along with his 72 companions 14 centuries ago in a battle with the massive army of Yazid I after refusing allegiance to the tyrant caliph.
Each year, followers of other religious groups such as Christians and Sunni Muslims join the journey to Arbaeen. The occasion has found additional significance in recent years as it has become a rallying cry for the campaign against the Takfiri terrorists who have frequently targeted the pilgrims.
For the past few days, hundreds of thousands from Iraq, Pakistan, India, Iran, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, Azerbaijan, Turkey and elsewhere have been trekking a main road between Najaf – another holy city in Iraq – and Karbala on foot to show their devotion.
Some of them started their hiking across the border in Iran and other countries. According to officials, as many as two million Iranians are heading to Karbala which is expected to draw 20 million pilgrims by Sunday. Meanwhile, Iraqi troops have been deployed to ensure security for the pilgrims.
Local Editor
