Tehran – A majestic and adoring exhibition of faith, unity and dedication, third day after the martial anniversary of Imam Sassein (AS) to commemorate the Aubion, where millions of pilgrims from every corner of the globe gathered in the sacred city of Kalbara (AS).
The scale of this annual pilgrimage is unparalleled, with participants from diverse nationalities, cultures and languages walking side by side for one purpose. To respect the sacrifice of Imam Hussein, who confronted tyranny and oppression at the Battle of Karbala in 680. His refusal to pledge allegiance to Yazid, the ruler of unjust Umayyadh, took their lives by him and his 72 loyal companions, but it maintained the principles of justice, dignity and truth for future generations.
For the days and weeks leading up to Albion, the road to Kalbara transforms into a river of humanity, extending from the Iraqi border and beyond. Pilgrims travel on foot from cities within Iraq and from neighbouring countries such as Iran, Lebanon, Pakistan and Afghanistan. Traveling further from Europe, Africa, America and Australia, I am driven by a love for Imam Hussein’s message.
The view is breathtaking. The endless lines of men, women and children of all ages walk shoulder to shoulder. Despite the huge differences in nationality, culture and language, pilgrims are united in their dedication and rejection of injustice.
One of the most striking features of Arbaeen is its generosity and hospitality, greeting pilgrims along the way. The service station run by thousands of monks mouke – volunteers – line up the route leading to Kalbara. Family, tribes and charities provided everything from fresh bread and hot meals to cold water, fruits and tea, and set up tents and kitchens. Others offer medical care, rest areas, blankets, massages for tired feet, and even shoe repairs.
For many of these volunteers, serving the pilgrims is a deeply spiritual act. It is a way to emulate Imam Hussein’s own compassion and selflessness. Some people save money all year round to fund their moukeb and consider it to be the best charity.
Official figures show that over 5 million pilgrims have travelled from Iran to Iraq in the past few weeks alone. In total, tens of millions of people are estimated to be participating around the world, making Irvine the largest peaceful gathering on the planet.
For those who cannot travel to Kalbala, the iconic Albain march takes place in hundreds of cities around the world. In Iran, the campaign “What’s Left From Albain” organized a large procession in all provinces. In Tehran, tens of thousands walked the 13-kilometer route from Imam Hussein Square (downtown Tehran) to Shah Abdul Azim Hasani shrine in Lei (south Tehran), with over 2,000 Mooqbu serving along the way. Similar events took place in Lebanon, Pakistan, India, Tanzania, the UK and North America, allowing participants to spiritually lead to the message of Kalbara.
Albain is deeply rooted in Shia tradition, but pilgrimage is far from exclusive. Sunnis, Christians, Yazidis, and other people of faith often walk alongside Shiite Muslims united by the universal values that Imam Hussein stood in. His call for justice, moral integrity, and oppressed defense resonates across religious and cultural boundaries.
This unity is not symbolic. It’s lively. Pilgrims share food, shelters and stories along the journey. Barriers of nationality, social class and language blend in with the shared rhythm of footprints towards Hussein’s shrine.
For many pilgrims, a journey to Kalbara is a personal turning point. Physical difficulties – long distances, hot days, crowded roads – are accepted as opportunities for spiritual cleansing and self-discipline. The Pilgrim describes Albain as a renewal of moral compasses, a reaffirmation of his commitment to justice and compassion in everyday life.
The emotional impact is profound. Many shed tears as pilgrims enter Kalbara and watch the golden dome of Imam Hussein’s shrine. The air is filled with the declaration of loyalty that has echoed over the 14th century: “Labayka Ya Hussein” – “Hussein with your service” – the 14th century.
Aaaaain is more than just a memory of historical events. It is a living, breathing movement. It reminds us that the struggle for justice is a timeless duty and that unity in the face of oppression can become a powerful force of change.
From the narrow alleys of Kalbala to the furthest areas of the Earth, Albain continues to be inspiration. It is a testament to the enduring power of faith and the extraordinary unity that can arise as millions march together for causes that transcend time, boundaries and differences.