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Shia Muslim Chehlum - India

Participants perform traditional mourning rituals during the Chehlum procession in Prayagraj, India, on August 15, 2025. Chehlum, also known as Arbaeen, is a Shia Muslim religious observance held 40 days after Ashura to commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, in the Battle of Karbala in the 7th century. Photo by Sanjay Kanojia/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

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Shia Muslim Chehlum - India

Shia Muslim devotees beat their chests during a Chehlum procession in Prayagraj, India, on August 15, 2025. Chehlum, also known as Arbaeen, is a Shia Muslim religious observance held 40 days after Ashura to commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, in the Battle of Karbala in the 7th century. Photo by Sanjay Kanojia/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

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Shia Muslim Chehlum - India

Participants perform traditional mourning rituals during the Chehlum procession in Prayagraj, India, on August 15, 2025. Chehlum, also known as Arbaeen, is a Shia Muslim religious observance held 40 days after Ashura to commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, in the Battle of Karbala in the 7th century. Photo by Sanjay Kanojia/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

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Shia Muslim Chehlum - India

Shia Muslim devotees beat their chests during a Chehlum procession in Prayagraj, India, on August 15, 2025. Chehlum, also known as Arbaeen, is a Shia Muslim religious observance held 40 days after Ashura to commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, in the Battle of Karbala in the 7th century. Photo by Sanjay Kanojia/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

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Shia Muslim Chehlum - India

Participants perform traditional mourning rituals during the Chehlum procession in Prayagraj, India, on August 15, 2025. Chehlum, also known as Arbaeen, is a Shia Muslim religious observance held 40 days after Ashura to commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, in the Battle of Karbala in the 7th century. Photo by Sanjay Kanojia/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

E

Shia Muslim Chehlum - India

Participants perform traditional mourning rituals during the Chehlum procession in Prayagraj, India, on August 15, 2025. Chehlum, also known as Arbaeen, is a Shia Muslim religious observance held 40 days after Ashura to commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, in the Battle of Karbala in the 7th century. Photo by Sanjay Kanojia/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

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Shia Muslim Chehlum - India

Participants perform traditional mourning rituals during the Chehlum procession in Prayagraj, India, on August 15, 2025. Chehlum, also known as Arbaeen, is a Shia Muslim religious observance held 40 days after Ashura to commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, in the Battle of Karbala in the 7th century. Photo by Sanjay Kanojia/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

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Shia Muslim Chehlum - India

Participants perform traditional mourning rituals during the Chehlum procession in Prayagraj, India, on August 15, 2025. Chehlum, also known as Arbaeen, is a Shia Muslim religious observance held 40 days after Ashura to commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, in the Battle of Karbala in the 7th century. Photo by Sanjay Kanojia/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

E

Shia Muslim Chehlum - India

Shia Muslim devotees beat their chests during a Chehlum procession in Prayagraj, India, on August 15, 2025. Chehlum, also known as Arbaeen, is a Shia Muslim religious observance held 40 days after Ashura to commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, in the Battle of Karbala in the 7th century. Photo by Sanjay Kanojia/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

E

Shia Muslim Chehlum - India

Participants perform traditional mourning rituals during the Chehlum procession in Prayagraj, India, on August 15, 2025. Chehlum, also known as Arbaeen, is a Shia Muslim religious observance held 40 days after Ashura to commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, in the Battle of Karbala in the 7th century. Photo by Sanjay Kanojia/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

E

Shia Muslim Chehlum - India

Shia Muslim devotees beat their chests during a Chehlum procession in Prayagraj, India, on August 15, 2025. Chehlum, also known as Arbaeen, is a Shia Muslim religious observance held 40 days after Ashura to commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, in the Battle of Karbala in the 7th century. Photo by Sanjay Kanojia/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

E

Shia Muslim Chehlum - India

Shia Muslim devotees beat their chests during a Chehlum procession in Prayagraj, India, on August 15, 2025. Chehlum, also known as Arbaeen, is a Shia Muslim religious observance held 40 days after Ashura to commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, in the Battle of Karbala in the 7th century. Photo by Sanjay Kanojia/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

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Pilgrims Begin Forty Day Trek to Karbala - Iraq

The first procession in Ras Al-Bishara marks the departure of pilgrims on foot to the holy city of Karbala in southern Iraq on July 18, 2025. The annual pilgrimage, known as Arbaeen if occurring during its traditional period, or in this case a prelude to it, draws millions of Shia Muslims from across Iraq and neighboring countries. Pilgrims walk for hundreds of kilometers to honor the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, who was killed in the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. The journey is not only religious but also deeply symbolic of faith, resilience, and communal solidarity. In Ras Al-Bishara, families, community leaders, and volunteers gather to send off the first groups of walkers, offering food, water, and prayers as part of long-standing traditions of hospitality and devotion. Photo by Samer Al Husseini/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

E

Pilgrims Begin Forty Day Trek to Karbala - Iraq

The first procession in Ras Al-Bishara marks the departure of pilgrims on foot to the holy city of Karbala in southern Iraq on July 18, 2025. The annual pilgrimage, known as Arbaeen if occurring during its traditional period, or in this case a prelude to it, draws millions of Shia Muslims from across Iraq and neighboring countries. Pilgrims walk for hundreds of kilometers to honor the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, who was killed in the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. The journey is not only religious but also deeply symbolic of faith, resilience, and communal solidarity. In Ras Al-Bishara, families, community leaders, and volunteers gather to send off the first groups of walkers, offering food, water, and prayers as part of long-standing traditions of hospitality and devotion. Photo by Samer Al Husseini/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

E

Pilgrims Begin Forty Day Trek to Karbala - Iraq

The first procession in Ras Al-Bishara marks the departure of pilgrims on foot to the holy city of Karbala in southern Iraq on July 18, 2025. The annual pilgrimage, known as Arbaeen if occurring during its traditional period, or in this case a prelude to it, draws millions of Shia Muslims from across Iraq and neighboring countries. Pilgrims walk for hundreds of kilometers to honor the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, who was killed in the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. The journey is not only religious but also deeply symbolic of faith, resilience, and communal solidarity. In Ras Al-Bishara, families, community leaders, and volunteers gather to send off the first groups of walkers, offering food, water, and prayers as part of long-standing traditions of hospitality and devotion. Photo by Samer Al Husseini/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

E

Pilgrims Begin Forty Day Trek to Karbala - Iraq

The first procession in Ras Al-Bishara marks the departure of pilgrims on foot to the holy city of Karbala in southern Iraq on July 18, 2025. The annual pilgrimage, known as Arbaeen if occurring during its traditional period, or in this case a prelude to it, draws millions of Shia Muslims from across Iraq and neighboring countries. Pilgrims walk for hundreds of kilometers to honor the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, who was killed in the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. The journey is not only religious but also deeply symbolic of faith, resilience, and communal solidarity. In Ras Al-Bishara, families, community leaders, and volunteers gather to send off the first groups of walkers, offering food, water, and prayers as part of long-standing traditions of hospitality and devotion. Photo by Samer Al Husseini/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

E

Pilgrims Begin Forty Day Trek to Karbala - Iraq

The first procession in Ras Al-Bishara marks the departure of pilgrims on foot to the holy city of Karbala in southern Iraq on July 18, 2025. The annual pilgrimage, known as Arbaeen if occurring during its traditional period, or in this case a prelude to it, draws millions of Shia Muslims from across Iraq and neighboring countries. Pilgrims walk for hundreds of kilometers to honor the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, who was killed in the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. The journey is not only religious but also deeply symbolic of faith, resilience, and communal solidarity. In Ras Al-Bishara, families, community leaders, and volunteers gather to send off the first groups of walkers, offering food, water, and prayers as part of long-standing traditions of hospitality and devotion. Photo by Samer Al Husseini/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

E

Pilgrims Begin Forty Day Trek to Karbala - Iraq

The first procession in Ras Al-Bishara marks the departure of pilgrims on foot to the holy city of Karbala in southern Iraq on July 18, 2025. The annual pilgrimage, known as Arbaeen if occurring during its traditional period, or in this case a prelude to it, draws millions of Shia Muslims from across Iraq and neighboring countries. Pilgrims walk for hundreds of kilometers to honor the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, who was killed in the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. The journey is not only religious but also deeply symbolic of faith, resilience, and communal solidarity. In Ras Al-Bishara, families, community leaders, and volunteers gather to send off the first groups of walkers, offering food, water, and prayers as part of long-standing traditions of hospitality and devotion. Photo by Samer Al Husseini/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

E

Pilgrims Begin Forty Day Trek to Karbala - Iraq

The first procession in Ras Al-Bishara marks the departure of pilgrims on foot to the holy city of Karbala in southern Iraq on July 18, 2025. The annual pilgrimage, known as Arbaeen if occurring during its traditional period, or in this case a prelude to it, draws millions of Shia Muslims from across Iraq and neighboring countries. Pilgrims walk for hundreds of kilometers to honor the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, who was killed in the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. The journey is not only religious but also deeply symbolic of faith, resilience, and communal solidarity. In Ras Al-Bishara, families, community leaders, and volunteers gather to send off the first groups of walkers, offering food, water, and prayers as part of long-standing traditions of hospitality and devotion. Photo by Samer Al Husseini/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

E

Pilgrims Begin Forty Day Trek to Karbala - Iraq

The first procession in Ras Al-Bishara marks the departure of pilgrims on foot to the holy city of Karbala in southern Iraq on July 18, 2025. The annual pilgrimage, known as Arbaeen if occurring during its traditional period, or in this case a prelude to it, draws millions of Shia Muslims from across Iraq and neighboring countries. Pilgrims walk for hundreds of kilometers to honor the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, who was killed in the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. The journey is not only religious but also deeply symbolic of faith, resilience, and communal solidarity. In Ras Al-Bishara, families, community leaders, and volunteers gather to send off the first groups of walkers, offering food, water, and prayers as part of long-standing traditions of hospitality and devotion. Photo by Samer Al Husseini/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

E

Pilgrims Begin Forty Day Trek to Karbala - Iraq

The forty-day walking festival from Ras Al-Bisha to Karbala. Iraqi pilgrims begin the symbolic Arbaeen journey from Ras Al-Bisha, located in southern Iraq, to the holy city of Karbala. Captured on July 18, 2025, this ritual marks the start of the 40-day spiritual trek ahead of Arbaeen, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world. Devotees commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was killed in the Battle of Karbala in 680 AD. Along the way, participants receive food, water, and shelter from volunteers at service tents (mawakib), demonstrating hospitality and religious solidarity. Many of the pilgrims walk hundreds of kilometers, bearing flags and religious symbols, chanting, and praying, enduring the scorching summer heat as a testament to their faith and sacrifice. The journey reflects a deeply rooted tradition of devotion and resilience in Shiite Muslim culture. Photo by Samer Al Husseini/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

E

Pilgrims Begin Forty Day Trek to Karbala - Iraq

The forty-day walking festival from Ras Al-Bisha to Karbala. Iraqi pilgrims begin the symbolic Arbaeen journey from Ras Al-Bisha, located in southern Iraq, to the holy city of Karbala. Captured on July 18, 2025, this ritual marks the start of the 40-day spiritual trek ahead of Arbaeen, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world. Devotees commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was killed in the Battle of Karbala in 680 AD. Along the way, participants receive food, water, and shelter from volunteers at service tents (mawakib), demonstrating hospitality and religious solidarity. Many of the pilgrims walk hundreds of kilometers, bearing flags and religious symbols, chanting, and praying, enduring the scorching summer heat as a testament to their faith and sacrifice. The journey reflects a deeply rooted tradition of devotion and resilience in Shiite Muslim culture. Photo by Samer Al Husseini/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

E

Pilgrims Begin Forty Day Trek to Karbala - Iraq

The forty-day walking festival from Ras Al-Bisha to Karbala. Iraqi pilgrims begin the symbolic Arbaeen journey from Ras Al-Bisha, located in southern Iraq, to the holy city of Karbala. Captured on July 18, 2025, this ritual marks the start of the 40-day spiritual trek ahead of Arbaeen, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world. Devotees commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was killed in the Battle of Karbala in 680 AD. Along the way, participants receive food, water, and shelter from volunteers at service tents (mawakib), demonstrating hospitality and religious solidarity. Many of the pilgrims walk hundreds of kilometers, bearing flags and religious symbols, chanting, and praying, enduring the scorching summer heat as a testament to their faith and sacrifice. The journey reflects a deeply rooted tradition of devotion and resilience in Shiite Muslim culture. Photo by Samer Al Husseini/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

E

Pilgrims Begin Forty Day Trek to Karbala - Iraq

The forty-day walking festival from Ras Al-Bisha to Karbala. Iraqi pilgrims begin the symbolic Arbaeen journey from Ras Al-Bisha, located in southern Iraq, to the holy city of Karbala. Captured on July 18, 2025, this ritual marks the start of the 40-day spiritual trek ahead of Arbaeen, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world. Devotees commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was killed in the Battle of Karbala in 680 AD. Along the way, participants receive food, water, and shelter from volunteers at service tents (mawakib), demonstrating hospitality and religious solidarity. Many of the pilgrims walk hundreds of kilometers, bearing flags and religious symbols, chanting, and praying, enduring the scorching summer heat as a testament to their faith and sacrifice. The journey reflects a deeply rooted tradition of devotion and resilience in Shiite Muslim culture. Photo by Samer Al Husseini/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

E

Pilgrims Begin Forty Day Trek to Karbala - Iraq

The forty-day walking festival from Ras Al-Bisha to Karbala. Iraqi pilgrims begin the symbolic Arbaeen journey from Ras Al-Bisha, located in southern Iraq, to the holy city of Karbala. Captured on July 18, 2025, this ritual marks the start of the 40-day spiritual trek ahead of Arbaeen, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world. Devotees commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was killed in the Battle of Karbala in 680 AD. Along the way, participants receive food, water, and shelter from volunteers at service tents (mawakib), demonstrating hospitality and religious solidarity. Many of the pilgrims walk hundreds of kilometers, bearing flags and religious symbols, chanting, and praying, enduring the scorching summer heat as a testament to their faith and sacrifice. The journey reflects a deeply rooted tradition of devotion and resilience in Shiite Muslim culture. Photo by Samer Al Husseini/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

E

Pilgrims Begin Forty Day Trek to Karbala - Iraq

The forty-day walking festival from Ras Al-Bisha to Karbala. Iraqi pilgrims begin the symbolic Arbaeen journey from Ras Al-Bisha, located in southern Iraq, to the holy city of Karbala. Captured on July 18, 2025, this ritual marks the start of the 40-day spiritual trek ahead of Arbaeen, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world. Devotees commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was killed in the Battle of Karbala in 680 AD. Along the way, participants receive food, water, and shelter from volunteers at service tents (mawakib), demonstrating hospitality and religious solidarity. Many of the pilgrims walk hundreds of kilometers, bearing flags and religious symbols, chanting, and praying, enduring the scorching summer heat as a testament to their faith and sacrifice. The journey reflects a deeply rooted tradition of devotion and resilience in Shiite Muslim culture. Photo by Samer Al Husseini/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

E

Pilgrims Begin Forty Day Trek to Karbala - Iraq

The forty-day walking festival from Ras Al-Bisha to Karbala. Iraqi pilgrims begin the symbolic Arbaeen journey from Ras Al-Bisha, located in southern Iraq, to the holy city of Karbala. Captured on July 18, 2025, this ritual marks the start of the 40-day spiritual trek ahead of Arbaeen, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world. Devotees commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was killed in the Battle of Karbala in 680 AD. Along the way, participants receive food, water, and shelter from volunteers at service tents (mawakib), demonstrating hospitality and religious solidarity. Many of the pilgrims walk hundreds of kilometers, bearing flags and religious symbols, chanting, and praying, enduring the scorching summer heat as a testament to their faith and sacrifice. The journey reflects a deeply rooted tradition of devotion and resilience in Shiite Muslim culture. Photo by Samer Al Husseini/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

E

Pilgrims Begin Forty Day Trek to Karbala - Iraq

The forty-day walking festival from Ras Al-Bisha to Karbala. Iraqi pilgrims begin the symbolic Arbaeen journey from Ras Al-Bisha, located in southern Iraq, to the holy city of Karbala. Captured on July 18, 2025, this ritual marks the start of the 40-day spiritual trek ahead of Arbaeen, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world. Devotees commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was killed in the Battle of Karbala in 680 AD. Along the way, participants receive food, water, and shelter from volunteers at service tents (mawakib), demonstrating hospitality and religious solidarity. Many of the pilgrims walk hundreds of kilometers, bearing flags and religious symbols, chanting, and praying, enduring the scorching summer heat as a testament to their faith and sacrifice. The journey reflects a deeply rooted tradition of devotion and resilience in Shiite Muslim culture. Photo by Samer Al Husseini/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

E

Pilgrims Begin Forty Day Trek to Karbala - Iraq

The forty-day walking festival from Ras Al-Bisha to Karbala. Iraqi pilgrims begin the symbolic Arbaeen journey from Ras Al-Bisha, located in southern Iraq, to the holy city of Karbala. Captured on July 18, 2025, this ritual marks the start of the 40-day spiritual trek ahead of Arbaeen, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world. Devotees commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was killed in the Battle of Karbala in 680 AD. Along the way, participants receive food, water, and shelter from volunteers at service tents (mawakib), demonstrating hospitality and religious solidarity. Many of the pilgrims walk hundreds of kilometers, bearing flags and religious symbols, chanting, and praying, enduring the scorching summer heat as a testament to their faith and sacrifice. The journey reflects a deeply rooted tradition of devotion and resilience in Shiite Muslim culture. Photo by Samer Al Husseini/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

E

Pilgrims Begin Forty Day Trek to Karbala - Iraq

The forty-day walking festival from Ras Al-Bisha to Karbala. Iraqi pilgrims begin the symbolic Arbaeen journey from Ras Al-Bisha, located in southern Iraq, to the holy city of Karbala. Captured on July 18, 2025, this ritual marks the start of the 40-day spiritual trek ahead of Arbaeen, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world. Devotees commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was killed in the Battle of Karbala in 680 AD. Along the way, participants receive food, water, and shelter from volunteers at service tents (mawakib), demonstrating hospitality and religious solidarity. Many of the pilgrims walk hundreds of kilometers, bearing flags and religious symbols, chanting, and praying, enduring the scorching summer heat as a testament to their faith and sacrifice. The journey reflects a deeply rooted tradition of devotion and resilience in Shiite Muslim culture. Photo by Samer Al Husseini/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

E

Pilgrims Begin Forty Day Trek to Karbala - Iraq

The forty-day walking festival from Ras Al-Bisha to Karbala. Iraqi pilgrims begin the symbolic Arbaeen journey from Ras Al-Bisha, located in southern Iraq, to the holy city of Karbala. Captured on July 18, 2025, this ritual marks the start of the 40-day spiritual trek ahead of Arbaeen, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world. Devotees commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was killed in the Battle of Karbala in 680 AD. Along the way, participants receive food, water, and shelter from volunteers at service tents (mawakib), demonstrating hospitality and religious solidarity. Many of the pilgrims walk hundreds of kilometers, bearing flags and religious symbols, chanting, and praying, enduring the scorching summer heat as a testament to their faith and sacrifice. The journey reflects a deeply rooted tradition of devotion and resilience in Shiite Muslim culture. Photo by Samer Al Husseini/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

E

Pilgrims Begin Forty Day Trek to Karbala - Iraq

The forty-day walking festival from Ras Al-Bisha to Karbala. Iraqi pilgrims begin the symbolic Arbaeen journey from Ras Al-Bisha, located in southern Iraq, to the holy city of Karbala. Captured on July 18, 2025, this ritual marks the start of the 40-day spiritual trek ahead of Arbaeen, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world. Devotees commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was killed in the Battle of Karbala in 680 AD. Along the way, participants receive food, water, and shelter from volunteers at service tents (mawakib), demonstrating hospitality and religious solidarity. Many of the pilgrims walk hundreds of kilometers, bearing flags and religious symbols, chanting, and praying, enduring the scorching summer heat as a testament to their faith and sacrifice. The journey reflects a deeply rooted tradition of devotion and resilience in Shiite Muslim culture. Photo by Samer Al Husseini/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

E

Pilgrims Begin Forty Day Trek to Karbala - Iraq

The forty-day walking festival from Ras Al-Bisha to Karbala. Iraqi pilgrims begin the symbolic Arbaeen journey from Ras Al-Bisha, located in southern Iraq, to the holy city of Karbala. Captured on July 18, 2025, this ritual marks the start of the 40-day spiritual trek ahead of Arbaeen, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world. Devotees commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was killed in the Battle of Karbala in 680 AD. Along the way, participants receive food, water, and shelter from volunteers at service tents (mawakib), demonstrating hospitality and religious solidarity. Many of the pilgrims walk hundreds of kilometers, bearing flags and religious symbols, chanting, and praying, enduring the scorching summer heat as a testament to their faith and sacrifice. The journey reflects a deeply rooted tradition of devotion and resilience in Shiite Muslim culture. Photo by Samer Al Husseini/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

E

Pilgrims Begin Forty Day Trek to Karbala - Iraq

The forty-day walking festival from Ras Al-Bisha to Karbala. Iraqi pilgrims begin the symbolic Arbaeen journey from Ras Al-Bisha, located in southern Iraq, to the holy city of Karbala. Captured on July 18, 2025, this ritual marks the start of the 40-day spiritual trek ahead of Arbaeen, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world. Devotees commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was killed in the Battle of Karbala in 680 AD. Along the way, participants receive food, water, and shelter from volunteers at service tents (mawakib), demonstrating hospitality and religious solidarity. Many of the pilgrims walk hundreds of kilometers, bearing flags and religious symbols, chanting, and praying, enduring the scorching summer heat as a testament to their faith and sacrifice. The journey reflects a deeply rooted tradition of devotion and resilience in Shiite Muslim culture. Photo by Samer Al Husseini/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

E

Pilgrims Begin Forty Day Trek to Karbala - Iraq

The forty-day walking festival from Ras Al-Bisha to Karbala. Iraqi pilgrims begin the symbolic Arbaeen journey from Ras Al-Bisha, located in southern Iraq, to the holy city of Karbala. Captured on July 18, 2025, this ritual marks the start of the 40-day spiritual trek ahead of Arbaeen, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world. Devotees commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was killed in the Battle of Karbala in 680 AD. Along the way, participants receive food, water, and shelter from volunteers at service tents (mawakib), demonstrating hospitality and religious solidarity. Many of the pilgrims walk hundreds of kilometers, bearing flags and religious symbols, chanting, and praying, enduring the scorching summer heat as a testament to their faith and sacrifice. The journey reflects a deeply rooted tradition of devotion and resilience in Shiite Muslim culture. Photo by Samer Al Husseini/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

E

Pilgrims Begin Forty Day Trek to Karbala - Iraq

The first procession in Ras Al-Bishara marks the departure of pilgrims on foot to the holy city of Karbala in southern Iraq on July 18, 2025. The annual pilgrimage, known as Arbaeen if occurring during its traditional period, or in this case a prelude to it, draws millions of Shia Muslims from across Iraq and neighboring countries. Pilgrims walk for hundreds of kilometers to honor the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, who was killed in the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. The journey is not only religious but also deeply symbolic of faith, resilience, and communal solidarity. In Ras Al-Bishara, families, community leaders, and volunteers gather to send off the first groups of walkers, offering food, water, and prayers as part of long-standing traditions of hospitality and devotion. Photo by Samer Al Husseini/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

E

Pilgrims Begin Forty Day Trek to Karbala - Iraq

The first procession in Ras Al-Bishara marks the departure of pilgrims on foot to the holy city of Karbala in southern Iraq on July 18, 2025. The annual pilgrimage, known as Arbaeen if occurring during its traditional period, or in this case a prelude to it, draws millions of Shia Muslims from across Iraq and neighboring countries. Pilgrims walk for hundreds of kilometers to honor the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, who was killed in the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. The journey is not only religious but also deeply symbolic of faith, resilience, and communal solidarity. In Ras Al-Bishara, families, community leaders, and volunteers gather to send off the first groups of walkers, offering food, water, and prayers as part of long-standing traditions of hospitality and devotion. Photo by Samer Al Husseini/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

E

Arbaeen Commemorations In Karbala - Iraq

Shiite Muslim devotees attend mourning rituals in Iraq's central holy shrine city of Karbala on August 23, 2024 ahead of the Arbaeen commemorations that mark the end of the 40-day mourning period for the seventh century killing of the Prophet Mohamed's grandson Imam Hussein ibn Ali. Photo by Ali Abdul Wahid/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

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Arbaeen Commemorations In Karbala - Iraq

Shiite Muslim devotees attend mourning rituals in Iraq's central holy shrine city of Karbala on August 23, 2024 ahead of the Arbaeen commemorations that mark the end of the 40-day mourning period for the seventh century killing of the Prophet Mohamed's grandson Imam Hussein ibn Ali. Photo by Ali Abdul Wahid/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

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Arbaeen Commemorations In Karbala - Iraq

Shiite Muslim devotees attend mourning rituals in Iraq's central holy shrine city of Karbala on August 23, 2024 ahead of the Arbaeen commemorations that mark the end of the 40-day mourning period for the seventh century killing of the Prophet Mohamed's grandson Imam Hussein ibn Ali. Photo by Ali Abdul Wahid/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

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Arbaeen Commemorations In Karbala - Iraq

Shiite Muslim devotees attend mourning rituals in Iraq's central holy shrine city of Karbala on August 23, 2024 ahead of the Arbaeen commemorations that mark the end of the 40-day mourning period for the seventh century killing of the Prophet Mohamed's grandson Imam Hussein ibn Ali. Photo by Ali Abdul Wahid/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

E

Arbaeen Commemorations In Karbala - Iraq

Shiite Muslim devotees attend mourning rituals in Iraq's central holy shrine city of Karbala on August 23, 2024 ahead of the Arbaeen commemorations that mark the end of the 40-day mourning period for the seventh century killing of the Prophet Mohamed's grandson Imam Hussein ibn Ali. Photo by Ali Abdul Wahid/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

E

Arbaeen Commemorations In Karbala - Iraq

Shiite Muslim devotees attend mourning rituals in Iraq's central holy shrine city of Karbala on August 23, 2024 ahead of the Arbaeen commemorations that mark the end of the 40-day mourning period for the seventh century killing of the Prophet Mohamed's grandson Imam Hussein ibn Ali. Photo by Ali Abdul Wahid/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

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Arbaeen Commemorations In Karbala - Iraq

Shiite Muslim devotees attend mourning rituals in Iraq's central holy shrine city of Karbala on August 23, 2024 ahead of the Arbaeen commemorations that mark the end of the 40-day mourning period for the seventh century killing of the Prophet Mohamed's grandson Imam Hussein ibn Ali. Photo by Ali Abdul Wahid/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

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Arbaeen Commemorations In Karbala - Iraq

Shiite Muslim devotees attend mourning rituals in Iraq's central holy shrine city of Karbala on August 23, 2024 ahead of the Arbaeen commemorations that mark the end of the 40-day mourning period for the seventh century killing of the Prophet Mohamed's grandson Imam Hussein ibn Ali. Photo by Ali Abdul Wahid/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

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Arbaeen Commemorations In Karbala - Iraq

Shiite Muslim devotees attend mourning rituals in Iraq's central holy shrine city of Karbala on August 23, 2024 ahead of the Arbaeen commemorations that mark the end of the 40-day mourning period for the seventh century killing of the Prophet Mohamed's grandson Imam Hussein ibn Ali. Photo by Ali Abdul Wahid/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

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Arbaeen Commemorations In Karbala - Iraq

Shiite Muslim devotees attend mourning rituals in Iraq's central holy shrine city of Karbala on August 23, 2024 ahead of the Arbaeen commemorations that mark the end of the 40-day mourning period for the seventh century killing of the Prophet Mohamed's grandson Imam Hussein ibn Ali. Photo by Ali Abdul Wahid/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

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Arbaeen Commemorations In Karbala - Iraq

Shiite Muslim devotees attend mourning rituals in Iraq's central holy shrine city of Karbala on August 23, 2024 ahead of the Arbaeen commemorations that mark the end of the 40-day mourning period for the seventh century killing of the Prophet Mohamed's grandson Imam Hussein ibn Ali. Photo by Ali Abdul Wahid/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

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Arbaeen Commemorations In Karbala - Iraq

Shiite Muslim devotees attend mourning rituals in Iraq's central holy shrine city of Karbala on August 23, 2024 ahead of the Arbaeen commemorations that mark the end of the 40-day mourning period for the seventh century killing of the Prophet Mohamed's grandson Imam Hussein ibn Ali. Photo by Ali Abdul Wahid/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

E

Arbaeen Commemorations In Karbala - Iraq

Shiite Muslim devotees attend mourning rituals in Iraq's central holy shrine city of Karbala on August 23, 2024 ahead of the Arbaeen commemorations that mark the end of the 40-day mourning period for the seventh century killing of the Prophet Mohamed's grandson Imam Hussein ibn Ali. Photo by Ali Abdul Wahid/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM