Celebrating the birth anniversary of Imam al-Mahdi (PBUH), the General Secretariat of Imam Hussain and al-Abbas Holy Shrines organised the 24th annual candlelight festival, titled Blessed are those who wait for his appearance.

The Karbala International Agency correspondent stated, "The festival was held near Al-Qibla Gate of al-Abbas Holy Shrine (PBUH) on Friday evening, February 23, 2024 AD, or 12, 1445 AH, in the presence of numerous people and pilgrims. The festival witnessed the lighting of 1,190 candles, symbolising Imam al-Mahdi's age (may Allah hasten his appearance).