Bianca Rahimi

Press TV, London



Thousands of people have gathered in central London to mark 40 days since the martyrdom anniversary of Islam’s 3rd Shia Imam.

Imam Hussein (AS) and dozens of his followers were martyred on the sands of Karbala after he refused to pledge allegiance to the tyrant of the time, Yazid. Thousands of Yazid’s soldiers set upon the Imam’s small caravan, slaughtered those who fought back and took the women and children captive.

For some 1,400 years, Muslims have commemorated the martyrdom of Imam Hussein (AS) and his companions on the day of Ashura and also 40 days after the martyrdom anniversary, Arba’een. In London, mourners also took to the streets to mark Arba'een.

The custom food and drink was handed out to passersby and the faithful. The organizers also provided information for those curious to know about Islam and the significance of this day. There was also an atmosphere of solidarity and a strong sense of responsibility among the Muslim community to make sure everything went off without a hitch.

This is the oldest Muslim procession in London, starting in 1982. It echoes the sentiment of millions of Muslims across the globe who believe the grandson of Prophet Mohammad (Peace be upon Him) is the true beacon of Islam who has kept its message alive.