Sulaymaniyah marks Mawlid with mosque ceremonies and mass food distribution

SULAYMANIYAH, Iraq — Tens of thousands of people gathered across mosques, Sufi lodges and religious centers in Sulaymaniyah this week to mark the birth of the Prophet Muhammad, with ceremonies including Quran recitations, devotional chants and poetry praising the Prophet and his family. At the city's Grand Mosque, attendees from different faiths and communities took part in programs that featured religious hymns, naat recitations and lectures on the life of the Prophet. Organizers also held social activities, distributing meals to worshippers and local residents. Volunteers and city residents helped prepare and serve more than 8,000 meals as part of the celebrations, according to a correspondent on the ground. Families turned out in large numbers, and the Grand Mosque drew heavy attendance throughout the event. Mawlid commemorations are held annually at mosques, tekyes and charitable centers across Sulaymaniyah, carrying messages of love, tolerance and solidarity.