London Arbaeen Procession: On Sunday 7th February 2010 around five thousand Shia Muslims met at Marble Arch for the 29th annual Arbaeen procession in London.
The procession celebrates the sacrifice made by the grandson of Mohammed, Imam Husain, who was killed with his family and companions at Kerbala in 61 AH (680 CE.)
Hussain ibn Ali is regarded as “a 7th century revolutionary leader who sacrificed his life for social justice“. He refused to accept the rule of Yazid, “a corrupt ruler who was violating the basic rights and dignity of the people.”
Husain and his family and supporters were surrounded by an army of the tyrant but refused to surrender, choosing to fight to the death for their beliefs rather than to compromise. Their stand is seen by Shia Muslims as symbol of freedom and dignity, and an aspiration to people and nations to strive for freedom, justice and equality.
Many Sunni Muslims also mourn for Imam Husain and regard the actions by Yazid’s men as unacceptable in Islam, but the events are not an important part of their observances. A small minority apparently still revere Yazid and suppot his actions.
Many of the banners and placards carried in the event call for and end to crimes against humanity – and in particular for various attacks on Shia Muslims around the world.
The London procession organised by the Hussaini Islamic Trust UK since 1982 is the oldest and largest in Europe. It takes place on the Sunday following the end of 40 days of mourning the martyrdom of Husain.
I photographed the procession every year from 2007 to 2007-2012 and there are other accounts and pictures from these years on My London Diary.
Much more about the event at London Arbaeen Procession.
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