Global Mourning Marks Martyrdom Anniversary of Sayyida Zaynab (peace be upon her)
Shia Muslims around the world commemorated the martyrdom anniversary of Sayyida Zaynab al-Kubra (peace be upon her) with widespread mourning ceremonies, symbolic processions, and the reopening of an expanded pilgrimage site in Karbala, highlighting her enduring spiritual and moral legacy.
Across the Islamic world, large numbers of Shiites and admirers of the Ahl al-Bayt (peace be upon them) gathered at holy shrines, mosques, and Islamic centers to mark the occasion in an atmosphere of grief, devotion, and remembrance. In Iraq, major commemorative events were centered in Karbala and Najaf, drawing thousands of pilgrims.
In Karbala, the Maqam Tal al-Zaynabiyyah was officially reopened to visitors following the completion of extensive development and renovation works. According to Shia Waves News Agency, the site—located within the Courtyard of Lady Aqilah (peace be upon her)—now spans approximately 3,300 square meters and includes four floors equipped with spaces for worship and visitor services. The reopening, timed to coincide with the martyrdom anniversary, has expanded the site’s capacity and improved facilities for pilgrims performing religious rites.
The city also witnessed large-scale mourning gatherings, including a symbolic funeral procession representing Lady Zaynab (peace be upon her). Thousands of mourners participated through elegies, lamentations, and supplications. Similar symbolic funeral rites were held at the holy shrine of the Askariyyayn (peace be upon them), where crowds gathered in a solemn and emotional atmosphere.
On the eve of the anniversary, mourning ceremonies were also held at the holy shrines of Imam Ali (peace be upon him) in Najaf, Imam Husayn (peace be upon him) in Karbala, and Abbas ibn Ali (peace be upon him). The shrine of Abbas ibn Ali was draped in black, and special mourning programs were organized. Additionally, a flag bearing the inscription “Ya Zaynab” was raised in the Courtyard of al-Aqilah, creating a distinctive spiritual setting for commemorating her legacy.
Beyond Iraq, memorial ceremonies were held worldwide—from Damascus to communities across Europe and the United States—where speakers recalled Lady Zaynab’s historic sermons after Karbala and her role as the bearer of its message. She continues to be regarded as a universal symbol of patience, resistance against oppression, and unwavering faith.
