In a breathtaking scene that unfolds every year, tens of thousands of green banners wave over the skies of Karbala as massive crowds take part in the Tuwaireej Run, the world’s largest popular mourning procession for Imam Hussain (peace be upon him) on the Day of Ashura.

What many may not know is that these banners are the product of a complex and coordinated human and logistical operation, beginning in the city of Tuwaireej, passing through Chinese factories, and finally returning to Iraq for distribution on the morning of the tenth of Muharram.

From Hand-Sewn Cloth to Global Production

Mahdi Al-Bahrani, a member of the organizing committee, shared the origins of this effort, “The tradition of preparing banners for the Tuwaireej Run began after 2003, when a group of young men in Tuwaireej hand-sewed the first batch in their homes, with the help of local women. At the time, we made no more than 300 banners, each inscribed with the phrase 'O Hussain – Tuwaireej Run,' and distributed them on Ashura.”

He added, “As the number of participants in the Run grew, the effort evolved into a large-scale project. Initially we produced the banners locally, but the sheer demand eventually required industrial-level production. Today, we send detailed specifications—including designs, colors, and sizes—to China, where the banners are professionally printed.”

Made in China – With Precision and Purpose

Each year, approximately 60,000 banners are produced in Chinese factories, according to strict specifications:

– Size: 45 x 90 cm

– Color: Green, symbolizing allegiance to Imam Hussain

– Printing: Thermal, water-resistant, and weather-resistant

– Inscription: “O Hussain – Tuwaireej Run”

The banners are shipped to Iraq in bundles of 25, ready for final distribution on the morning of Ashura.

Detailed Logistics for Distribution

Al-Bahrani detailed the planning behind the massive distribution effort, “On the night of the ninth of Muharram, committees in Tuwaireej and Karbala launch the distribution plan. Around 15 main distribution points are established, stretching from the 'Qantara al-Salam' area to Al-Jumhuriya Street, the path of the Run.”

The process begins at 9:00 a.m. and continues until the start of the ritual following the noon prayer. Volunteers and residents manage the operation, with women playing a vital role in packing, sorting, and tying the banners.

Public Donations and Global Demand

As for funding, Al-Bahrani explained, “The banner production is financed entirely through public donations in the Gulf and Europe. Symbolic banners are also sent to processions and religious figures in countries like Iran, Lebanon, Syria, Sweden, Britain, and more.”

A Symbol of Loyalty and Faith

Walaa Al-Sharifi, a resident of Tuwaireej and regular participant in the Run, reflected on the deeper meaning of the banner, “Carrying the banner is not just a custom—it’s a declaration of devotion and loyalty to the cause of Imam Hussain. When I raise the green banner, I feel spiritually connected to the cry of Hussain’s companions in Karbala. It’s both a responsibility and an honor.”

With this level of dedication and symbolic depth, the green banners of the Tuwaireej Run are far more than fabric. They are banners of faith, speaking on behalf of millions in a collective moment of grief that transcends time and borders, from Tuwaireej to the entire world.

Emad Bao