Hawzah News Agency- Najaf, Iraq – In celebration of Eid al-Ghadir, the Holy Shrine of Imam Ali (PBUH) hosted a large-scale reception for pilgrims, including a grand banquet for over 8,000 guests, as part of a broader service plan that provided more than 500,000 meals to worshippers arriving from across Iraq and abroad.
Athir al-Tamimi, head of the Pilgrim Reception Department at the shrine, announced the successful implementation of a comprehensive service program during the night and day of Eid al-Ghadir—one of the most significant festivals in the Islamic calendar.
“More than 500,000 meals were prepared and distributed through 10 major entrances to the shrine,” al-Tamimi stated, noting that each gate served between 50,000 to 60,000 meals. The distribution included lunch and dinner, continuing throughout the celebration period.
A grand communal dinner was held in the courtyard of Hazrat Fatima Zahra (peace be upon her), accommodating over 8,000 pilgrims, with additional offerings including fresh juice, sweets, and natural flowers distributed to mark the occasion.
To support the large influx of visitors, the Alawi Holy Shrine also extended logistical assistance to 14 service processions stationed along roads leading to the shrine. These processions were provided with essential supplies including dry and fresh food and meat to help serve the pilgrims effectively.
Al-Tamimi emphasized that the shrine's efforts were made possible through the mobilization of all service departments and the support of thousands of male and female volunteers, all committed to ensuring a smooth, respectful, and welcoming experience for the guests of Imam Ali (peace be upon him).
“Our aim was to create a spiritual and hospitable atmosphere that reflects the greatness of this occasion and the generosity of the household of the Prophet (PBUH),” he said.
The Eid al-Ghadir celebrations commemorated the historic event of Ghadir Khumm, where Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him and his family) is believed to have appointed Imam Ali (PBUH) as his successor—an event regarded as the “greatest Eid” in Shia Islam.
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