‘Circle of Lovers’ chronicles centuries-old Arbaeen pilgrimage

Iranian documentary ‘Circle of Lovers’, directed by Hamed Kaljei, sheds light on one of the most enduring and sacred traditions in Islam: the Arbaeen pilgrimage.

‘Circle of Lovers’ offers a comprehensive exploration of the history, evolution, and significance of this ritual, tracing its origins from 680 CE to the present day.

The documentary delves into the historical roots of the Arbaeen pilgrimage, beginning with the story of Jabir ibn Abdullah Ansari, a companion of the Prophet Muhammad [PBUH], who is recorded as the first pilgrim to visit Imam Hussein’s (AS) grave on Arbaeen along with Atiyah al‐Awfi.

This initial act of devotion set the precedent for what became a widespread and cherished practice among Shias.

‘Circle of Lovers’ goes beyond the surface to explore the hardships and challenges faced by pilgrims throughout history.

The documentary highlights the resilience of the Shia community, who, despite facing restrictions and persecution during the Abbasid caliphate, as well as later times, remained committed to the tradition of the Arbaeen pilgrimage.

Notably, the film credits Muhaddis Nouri with reviving this tradition after it had fallen into obscurity following the era of Sheikh Ansari.

Filmed during the 2017 Arbaeen ceremonies in Iraq, ‘Circle of Lovers’ captures the emotional and spiritual essence of the pilgrimage through interviews with experts like Hadi Ansari, Safa al-Din Tabarraeean, Jabbar Rahmani, and Mohammad-Reza Pouyafar.

These insights provide viewers with a nuanced understanding of how this tradition has been preserved and passed down through the centuries.

The documentary is a reminder of how, even in the face of adversity, the Arbaeen pilgrimage continued to thrive as a symbol of unity, devotion, and remembrance.

As ‘Circle of Lovers’ takes viewers on a journey through time, it also invites them to reflect on the significance of the Arbaeen pilgrimage in today’s world, where millions continue to walk the path of their ancestors, keeping alive a tradition that speaks to the heart of Shia identity and spirituality.

Arbaeen, observed forty days after the martyrdom of Imam Hussein (AS), the grandson of Prophet Muhammad [PBUH], marks an important moment in the Islamic calendar.

On this day, the 20th of Safar, millions of Shia Muslims embark on a pilgrimage to the holy city of Karbala, Iraq, to honor the memory of Imam Hussein (AS).

This journey, undertaken on foot by many, is not merely a physical voyage but a spiritual quest that has been passed down through generations.