MASHHAD- For several days, the city of Mashhad was buzzing with excitement as it prepared to celebrate the grand anniversary of the birth of Imam Reza (AS), the eighth Imam of the Shia. The usually vibrant streets were adorned with colorful decorations, and the sweet scent of traditional sweets and fruits wafted through the air, filling every corner with a sense of joy and anticipation. The atmosphere was electric, as people from all walks of life eagerly awaited the celebrations to begin.

But just as the festivities were getting underway, a somber message shook the city to its core. News of the tragic helicopter crash involving the Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, and his entourage sent shockwaves through the city, leaving many in a state of disbelief and dismay. 

As the celebrations continued on Sunday night, speakers at various points in the Imam Reza shrine called upon the pilgrims to offer prayers for the president's safety and well-being. Various groups of people formed throughout the shrine, coming together to pray for the president's health and that of his companions, as a sense of unity and shared concern washed over the city.

On Monday morning, when news of the president's death was confirmed, the city took on a different tone. Despite the official announcement of mourning not yet being made, people, dressed in black attire, began to gather and head to the holy shrine.

The festive decorations and banners that had adorned the city for the birth anniversary celebrations were hastily replaced with mourning signs and black flags, as the city's tone shifted from jubilation to somber reflection. 

The holy shrine was soon filled with people who came not only to pay their respects to the president, but also to offer prayers for the peace of his soul and the comfort of his family.

The city's streets have been transformed into a somber landscape of black, as mourners from across the country converge to pay their respects to the president. The city's iconic landmarks, including the holy shrine Imam Reza (AS), are now draped in black, a symbol of respect and mourning for the president.

Meanwhile, shop owners in the vibrant bazaars across the city have suspended their business activities, opting instead to join in the mourning process. However, as the city is known as a major tourist hub, various organizations are working together to provide essential services to pilgrims and tourists who had arrived in the city before the tragic incident. 

As Mashhad says goodbye to its beloved president, it is clear that his legacy will live on in the hearts of its people. Despite the tragedy that has befallen them, the city's residents will draw strength from their faith and their community, finding solace in the collective grief and unity.

In preparation for the outpouring of mourning, the city is gearing up to welcome thousands of mourners who will converge to pay their respects to the president on Thursday. In a poignant twist, Ebrahim Raisi, who was born in Mashhad, will be laid to rest in his hometown, a testament to the deep connection between the city and the president.

SAB/