Iran ready to observe Mid-Shaban celebrations

This year May 2 is marked as Mid-Shaban in Islamic calendar on which people honor the birth anniversary of the Promised Savior.

One of the most important religious occasions among Muslims is the 15th of the sixth Islamic month of Shaban which is the birth anniversary of twelfth Imam of Shia Muslims, Imam al-Mahdi (AJ).

The occasion of Mid-Shaban is marked by devotion and celebration among Muslims.

Imam al-Mahdi (AJ) was born on July 29, 869 CE (Shaban 15, 255 AH) in Samarra city of Iraq.

Now turning 1146 years old, Imam disappeared in 941 for the second time when he was 71 and his reappearance is associated with bringing justice to the world and ending tyranny and inequality.

Mid-Shaban has special significance for Muslims throughout the world and is celebrated in Islamic countries such as Iraq, Egypt, Bahrain, Yemen and Iran.

Hidden by God, Imam al-Mahdi (AJ) is an important figure for all Muslims and therefore this is an important event for the people.

Among the colorful scenes of the night in Iranian cities is the illumination of the streets and religious venues with colored lamps.

Birth anniversary ceremony of Imam al-Mahdi is Iran's prime festival of lights and happiness across the country and all Shia and Sunni Muslims and even non-Muslims celebrate the event and share their happiness.

According to Islamic beliefs, the Savior Imam al-Mahdi (AJ) will be accompanied by Jesus Christ [PBUH] after his reappearance and in his fight against the evil.

Keeping up with the tradition, the people distribute cookies, sweets and juice on the streets greeting the passer-bys by congratulations.

Another part of Mid-Shaban ceremonies and celebrations is fireworks the apex of which can be seen in Tehran’s Milad Tower which lights the night sky of the capital.

MG/FM