Sohail Anjum Malik
It has been recommended that on the occasion of the Arba’in of Imam Hussain (a.s) and his devoted companions visit to the tombs and graves of the Holy Imam and the martyrs of the tragedy of Karbala should be paid. The day of Arba’in is one of the most crowded days in the sacred city of Karbala.
The Muslims of all sects and the Shi’as in particular come to that glorious place from different parts of the world including Pakistan to pay tribute in shape of PURSA/AZADARI and MAJALIS the great and magnanimous persons Imam Hussain (a.s) Abbas Ibn Imam Ali (a.s) and family of Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW) who performed the feats of highest, bravery, devotion and honor. Of course, the ceremonies of homage can be performed and one’s attachment to the sacred mission of the martyrs can be expressed in any words and language. Even non muslim from all over the world travel to Iraq to attend this huge and peaceful protest including Christians and Jewish people and make a protest walk from Najaf city of Imam Ali (a.s) to the city of Shuhada and Syed ul Shuhada Imam Hussain and Abbas Alamdar. Local Iraqi people host and offer their best possible service Food. Drinks. Fruits to the lovers and ZAWARS of Imam Hussain (a.s) & his family which is the family of Holy Prophet Muhammad PBUH and protesters for peace and for humanity
Every year a big number of visitors travel from all big and small cities of Pakistan & Azad Jammu & Kashmir to attend Chehlam 40th of Imam Hussain (a.s) in Iraqi city of Karbala Moulla and other holy shrines.
This year due to some political protests the Iraq. The Embassy in Islamabad, started it’s visa issuance work 10 days late. But as per most reliable sources, even then due to the extra ordinary arrangements and services provided by brotherly country Iraq and its embassy in Islamabad, to the Pakistani Zaireen, working days and nights even during holidays. Extra diplomatic staff for the above purpose was called from Iraqi Foreign Office to facilitate and ease the visa issuance facilities. Newly arrived Charge ‘d Affairs/ acting Ambassador, His Excellency Mr. Abdul Salam Saddam Mohsein worked very hard to provide urgent/ speedy visa services to the Pakistani and Kashmiri visitors through their registered Tour Operators.
Consul Mr. Odhye Adnan, Vice Consuls Mr. Mustafa & Assad Khalaf. Chief Accountant Mr. Maqdad were also very ac rive and cooperative with visitors and with their aurhorised tour operators in the recent working days. According to sources
the number of visitors reached over one hundred thousand in a week time. Reports say that this year’s number of zaireen increased more than the previous years.
Whole credit goes to newly posted head of the mission and acting Ambassador His Excellency Mr. Abdul Salam. Such cooperative and positive approach can bring brotherly ties between both the countries more closer in coming future.