The Arbaeen pilgrimage, held annually in Karbala, Iraq, is one of the most significant and largest religious gatherings in the world. This pilgrimage marks the 40th day after the martyrdom of Imam Hussain, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was brutally killed in the Battle of Karbala in 680 AD. Imam Hussain’s stand against tyranny and his ultimate sacrifice have made him a symbol of resistance, justice, and unwavering faith for Shia Muslims. Each year, millions of pilgrims from around the globe converge on Karbala to honor his memory and legacy.
In 2024, the Arbaeen pilgrimage saw a record-breaking turnout, with official figures reporting an astonishing 21.5 million pilgrims. Many of these devotees journeyed on foot from distant cities like Najaf, enduring long and arduous routes as an expression of their deep devotion and solidarity with Imam Hussain. The pilgrimage is characterized by a remarkable sense of community and hospitality, with volunteers setting up thousands of makeshift tents (known as “mawakib”) along the pilgrimage routes to offer free food, water, and medical care to the travellers.
This year’s pilgrimage was not only a spiritual journey but also a profound manifestation of human resilience, unity, and shared values. Through this photographic essay, I aimed to document the emotional depth, spiritual intensity, and the extraordinary acts of kindness and brotherhood that define the Arbaeen pilgrimage.
