15th International Ghadir Week begins in Najaf

NAJAF, Iraq — Activities for the 15th International Ghadir Week began Tuesday evening in Najaf, as the city marked Ghadir Day. The events are being held alongside commemorations of the holiday. A large number of visitors from inside and outside Iraq, along with religious and cultural delegations, are taking part in the program. Visitors are expected to visit the Imam Ali Shrine, carry out religious rituals and pray at graves. The event also includes celebration programs, with flowers, cake and soft drinks being distributed to visitors as people exchange greetings. Religious and cultural sessions are also being held on the Ghadir pledge and its Islamic meaning. The Iraqi government had declared Thursday, June 4, a public holiday for Ghadir Day.