Arbaeen International Award calls for entries

The 11th edition of the Arbaeen International Award, organized by Iran's Islamic Culture and Relations Organization with the support of cultural institutions and grassroots organizations, has officially opened its call for submissions.

The global event, held annually, aims to showcase artistic and literary works that convey the profound messages of Imam Hussein's (AS) Ashura and Arbaeen through various creative mediums.

Arbaeen marks the 40th day after the martyrdom anniversary of Imam Hussein (AS), the third Shia Imam.

This year, the competition covers a wide range of categories, including photography, short films and documentaries.

Those interested from around the world are invited to submit their works by December 5, 2025, through the event’s official social media channels and a dedicated online portal.

Last year’s edition drew 31,824 submissions from 38 countries, including 24,464 photographs, 359 films, 2,500 digital productions, 2,100 travelogues and literary notes, 246 poems, 87 books, and 2,060 Arbaeen-themed melodies.