To mark the annual day of Ashura—a significant day of mourning in the Islamic calendar that commemorates the martyrdom of the Prophet Muhammad’s grandson, Imam Hussein, and his followers (may blessings of God be upon them)—solemn ceremonies were held in the cities of Mazare Sharif and Kabul, in Afghanistan.

In the city of Mazare Sharif, the office of the prominent religious leader Grand Ayatollah Sadiq Shirazi hosted a gathering. Scholars and believers participated in this gathering. Speakers reflected on Imam Hussein’s (peace be upon him) movement and the importance of adhering to his teachings, even in the face of great adversity. These teachings include standing up for freedom, justice, the value of personal sacrifice, and the need to uphold moral principles.

Meanwhile, in the city of Kabul, the Lady Fatimah Zahra Complex held its own service. The program began with readings from the Quran and traditional prayers associated with the day. Among the service’s segments were female students paying tribute to the memory of the youngest martyr of Karbala, the infant Abdullah. Also, a local cleric, in his speech, explained the dimensions of the oppression of Imam Hussein and his companions, peace be upon them.

To conclude the day, organizers at the Kabul complex honored the tradition of service by distributing free, blessed meals to both the attendees and local residents of the neighborhood.