Iranians mark Imam Mahdi (AS) Imamate

Iranians have celebrated the beginning of Imam Mahdi's (AS) Imamate in the Islamic lunar month of Rabi al-Awwal. 

A large group of Iranian Muslims on Thursday commemorated the start of the twelfth Shia Imam's leadership, gathering in ceremonies held in the Iranian capital city of Tehran.

Shiite Muslims believe that Imam Mahdi (AS), the twelfth and last Imam, went into hiding and will one day return to earth to establish justice.

The beginning of his Imamate and birth anniversary is marked with religious ceremonies and other festivities.

AG/AG