TEHRAN - As millions of pilgrims prepare for their annual on-foot journey to Iraq’s holy city of Karbala to commemorate Arbaeen, Kermanshah province has announced an increase in the number of handicraft stalls along the pilgrimage route.

This expansion is set to offer pilgrims the opportunity to explore and purchase unique local handicrafts during their spiritual trek, a local official said on Wednesday.

“The number of handicraft stalls along the Arbaeen pilgrimage route will see a notable increase this year,” Amin Kougani said.

In response to a directive from the provincial governor-general, Kougani emphasized that this expansion will particularly focus on the border area of Khosravi, a key crossing point for pilgrims entering Iraq.

Kougani highlighted that last year, 150 handicraft stalls were established along the route from Kangavar to Qasr-e Shirin, which generated sales of over 80 billion rials (approximately $150,000). This year, the number of stalls is expected to increase by 30, bringing the total closer to 180 stalls.

“The governor’s directive aims to provide a wider array of local handicrafts and souvenirs to the pilgrims,” said Kougani. “The success of last year’s stalls demonstrated the high demand and appreciation for Kermanshah’s handicrafts, and we are committed to meeting that demand by expanding the availability of these cultural treasures.”

Arbaeen, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, marks the end of the 40-day mourning period following the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (AS), the third Shia Imam, and his companions at the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. Each year, millions of Shia Muslims from around the world embark on the pilgrimage to Karbala, walking hundreds of kilometers as a testament to their faith and devotion.

AM