Arbaeen is an important religious holiday for Shiites in Iran and around the world. It marks the 40th day after the death of Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Mohammad, who was killed in the Battle of Karbala in 680 AD.
The festival is celebrated every year in the Islamic month of Safar and falls in the month of November or December of the Gregorian calendar. It is a day of remembrance, mourning and prayer for millions of believers.
During the Arbaeen pilgrimage, millions of Shiites from around the world gather to travel to the holy city of Karbala in Iraq, where Imam Hussein's mausoleum is located. The pilgrimage is considered one of the largest religious gatherings in the world and is a sign of Shia solidarity, courage and commitment.
The pilgrimage to Arbaeen is an important part of Shia culture and history. The faithful wear black clothing and participate in processions to show their sorrow and compassion. They also recite zikr, a type of religious meditation, and pray for peace and well-being.
In addition to its religious significance, the festival also has a political dimension. Many of the pilgrims use the occasion to show solidarity with oppressed Shiites in Iraq and elsewhere. Humanitarian and charitable activities are also carried out during the Arbaeen pilgrimage, such as the distribution of free food and the establishment of mobile hospitals to meet the needs of pilgrims.
In recent years, Iranian authorities have also developed tourism and infrastructure related to the Arbaeen Pilgrimage Route to ensure a smooth and safe journey for pilgrims.
Overall, Arbaeen is an important religious holiday and an opportunity for Shiites from around the world to strengthen their spiritual and cultural bonds and unite in solidarity and compassion.