HOLY CITY OF NAJAF, Iraq: According to an official estimate more than three million devotees gathered at the holy shrine of Al-Imam Ali bin Abi Taleb (peace be on him) in the holy city of Najaf to observe Eid Al-Ghadir or the feast of Ghadir on Tuesday November 15 amid tight security.

The day was declared ‘public holiday’ in the Najaf governorate.

Special desserts and food was cooked in very giant pots at the streets to serve the guests of Al-Imam Ali (peace be on him) marking the happiest occasion.

A’maal of the day are performed at the holy shrine.

Thousands of women, dressed from head to toe in the abaya handed out sweets and wailed for joy on the streets.

The magnificent Imam Ali (peace be upon him) mausoleum was decorated with lights, balloons and multicolored buntings.

Eid Al-Ghadir also called as Eid Al-Wilayah is observed across Iraq with great reverence and enthusiasm on Dholhijjah 18. Main celebration is held at the holy Haideri shrine.

The formal declaration of Imamah (Leadership) of Al-Imam Ali (peace be on him) was announced by the Holy Prophet of Islam (SAW) on 18th of Dholhijjah of the year 10 AH at Ghadir Khomm near the holy city of Makkah, Saudi Arabia after the 'Farewell Hajj'.

On this historical and auspicious day on the divine orders of Allah Almighty (SWT), the Holy Prophet of Islam (SAW) formally declared Imam Ali (peace be on him) as 'The Caliph of the Muslims after the Holy Prophet of Islam (S) saying: To Whom I'm Lord, Ali is Lord, O Allah! Befriend whoever befriend him and be hostile to whosoever is hostile to him."

After his declaration, the angel Gabriel came from Allah and brought these verses of Quran: Al-Youma Akmaltu lakom deenakom wa Atmamto alaykom ne’mati (this day I have completed My religion and fulfilled My blessings on you)."

Al-Imam Ali (peace be on him) is the only unique personality in the world who was born in the Holy Ka’aba and was martyred in the Mosque.