Karbala, Iraq, has become a sea of worshippers as millions of Shiite pilgrims gather for one of the most massive annual public assemblies on the planet.
The observance comes 40 days after the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, whose killing in the 7th century Battle of Karbala remains a pivotal moment in the Sunni-Shiite split.
Pilgrims, many trekking for days from cities such as Najaf and Baghdad, are joined by over two million visitors from Iran and other nations. Along the journey, volunteers have set up tents to provide free food, drinks, and rest stops for the faithful.
Though less popular to many than the Hajj, Arbaeen draws an even larger crowd, highlighting its deep spiritual importance to Shiite Muslims across the globe.
