Shafaqna English- As the anniversary of the birth of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) approaches, the city of Erbil is preparing to host large-scale celebrations and welcome hundreds of thousands of people from across the Kurdistan Region and other Iraqi provinces. Streets, markets and the city’s historic citadel have been decorated for the occasion.
Erbil, the capital of Iraq’s Kurdistan Region, began preparations several days ago to create a festive atmosphere ahead of celebrations marking the Prophet’s birth anniversary.
According to Middle East News, citing Shafaq News, the city’s old alleys and markets have been decorated with religious and traditional displays reflecting the significance of the occasion among local residents.
The historic Erbil Citadel and the city’s Qaysari Bazaar are witnessing extensive activity, along with special lighting and decorations. Hundreds of thousands of citizens and visitors from various Iraqi provinces are expected to travel to Erbil to attend the main events and experience the distinctive atmosphere for which the city is known.
Hindreen Ahmed, an Iraqi citizen, said: “The Mawlid celebrations in Erbil have a special atmosphere and bring families together. We are accustomed to going to the city center and taking part in distributing sweets and food as a symbol of love and blessing. It is an atmosphere that both adults and children look forward to every year.”
Sirwan Kamal, a sweets shop owner in Qaysari Bazaar, said: “The markets reach their peak activity during these days, and demand for various sweets and snacks prepared specifically for the Mawlid increases. We are trying to prepare larger quantities to meet the needs of people and the service processions that distribute these products free of charge in the streets.”
Yahya Arbili, an activist and one of those involved in organizing the celebrations, said: “The area around the citadel is the beating heart of these celebrations. Every year, we are present here to organize public programs and coordinate the activities of Sufi groups that perform traditional chants and songs. These programs attract visitors and showcase Erbil’s identity of coexistence and brotherhood.”
Meanwhile, service and security measures are continuing across Erbil to facilitate movement and welcome visitors and pilgrims, ensuring that the city remains one of the main destinations for celebrations marking the birth anniversary of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
Source: Middle East News