Global Ceremonies of Husseini Infants Held in 46 Countries

The Husseini Infants Ceremonies, a global event commemorating the martyrdom of Ali Asghar—the six-month-old son of Imam Hussein (peace be upon him)—were held in 46 countries, including Iran, Iraq, Pakistan, Bahrain, India, and Turkey.

This global Ceremony brought together mothers from many different backgrounds to mourn the youngest person martyred at the Battle of Karbala.

Across Iran, over 8,500 gatherings were held to commemorate the martyrdom of Ali Asghar, and neighboring Pakistan hosted an additional 400 sessions.

Davoud Manafipour, the secretary of the World Assembly of Ali Asghar (PBUH), emphasized the significance of the event, stating that it provides an opportunity to answer the questions of the current generation about the tradition of mourning.

He highlighted that the ceremony transcends geographical boundaries and is not limited to Shia Muslims, as even Christian mothers participate.

Manafipour emphasized that Imam Hussein (PBUH) belongs not just to the Shia community but to all, as his message of reform and justice is universal.

The Husseini Infants Ceremony has seen a remarkable surge in popularity since its inception in Tehran in 2003. Fars province in Iran hosted the largest gathering, with 800 congregations, while the capital city of Tehran organized more than 300 sessions.

Ali Asghar, 6 months old and the youngest martyr of the Karbala battle, serves as the powerful symbol of standing up against injustice. Imam Hussein took his infant in his arms and pleaded with the enemy forces to give the thirsty child even a few drops of water. In response, Harmala, one of the archers of Umar ibn Sa’d’s army, shot a heavy arrow that struck the infant’s neck, martyring him instantly in his father’s arms.