Millions of pilgrims have gathered in Iraq’s holy city of Karbala to mark Arbaeen, a sacred Shia Muslim ritual. Arbaeen, also known as Chehelum, commemorates the end of the 40-day mourning period after the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, Prophet Muhammad’s grandson, in the battle of Ashoura.

This is Sadeq Ahangaran’s song about the Arba’een March and Imam Hussein (AS):

Love is your karbala

Labbayka Ya Hussein

My life and body are a sacrifice for you. Labbayka Ya Hussein

You have said once again. “Is there anyone who will come to our aid ?”

A sacrifice for your call

Labbayka Ya Hussein

A sacrifice for your call

Labbayka Ya Hussein

Your lovers are gathered from every color and language.

On the path to your Karbala. Labbayk Ya Hussein

With the tears of fervor and murmur of a lifetime

That I have in the tent of your mourning

Labbayka Ya Hussein

The blood in my heart beats

Labbayka Ya Hussein

The voice of the wind cries

Labbayka Ya Hussein

The march has appeared

from every nation

from every part of the world

Labbayka Ya Hussein

Those who cry “Allah is Great” have wrapped the Ihram around their bodies like a shroud

I come towards your Mena. Labbayk Ya Hussein

Between your court and the court of your water bearer, I say

From your Marwa to your Safa, I say Labbayk Ya Hussein

I have come out of love for you, O’ Martyr!

I give my head for your path

Labbayka Ya Hussein

Whomever knows you will never know humiliation,

Whomever knows you will never agree to succumb to humiliation,

Labbayka Ya Hussein

This Revolution is alive through the remembrance of your Labbayk,

In our hands are your flags,

Labbayka Ya Hussain

When will it be that I come to your pure court?

When will it be that I come to your pure court?

Labbayka Ya Hussein