The pavilion of the Holy Shrine of Imam Hussain has drawn strong public interest and high visitor turnout during the Tunis International Book Fair, reflecting growing engagement with its cultural and intellectual offerings and reinforcing its presence within Arab and international cultural circles.

In a statement to Karbala Now, pavilion director Mr. Ali Mamitha said that from the opening days of the fair, the pavilion attracted a diverse audience, including academics, intellectuals, students, and researchers. Visitors explored a wide range of publications spanning religious, cultural, intellectual, and literary themes, with a focus on the heritage of Ahlulbayt (peace be upon them), the values of the Hussaini renaissance, and works promoting moderation, dialogue, and openness.

He added that visitor engagement went beyond browsing, with many attendees participating in discussions with pavilion staff and inquiring about the Holy Shrine’s key intellectual and cultural initiatives. He noted the positive feedback received regarding the quality of the publications, as well as the pavilion’s design and organization.

Mamitha emphasized that this marks the Holy Shrine of Imam Hussain’s first participation in the Tunis International Book Fair—an important step toward expanding its cultural outreach beyond Iraq, strengthening intellectual exchange with Tunisian and Arab audiences, and presenting its efforts in promoting a balanced and enlightened Islamic cultural discourse.

He also highlighted the continued program of accompanying events, including dialogue sessions and presentations of new publications, which have further enhanced visitor engagement and reinforced the pavilion’s cultural presence.

This participation represents a significant step in the Holy Shrine’s broader efforts to connect with regional and international audiences, underscoring its commitment to sharing its intellectual and humanistic vision with a wider public.

Emad Bao