Iranians across the country are celebrating Eid al-Ghadir which marks the appointment of Imam Ali (AS) as successor of Prophet Mohammad (PBUH).

Muslims, particularly Shia community, mark Eid al-Ghadir celebrating the appointment of Imam Ali (AS), Prophet Mohammad’s cousin and son-in-law as the first imam to lead the Muslim nation, reported Taqrib News Agency (TNA).

The occasion is named after the event of Ghadir Khum when Prophet Mohammad (PBUH) introduced Imam Ali (AS) as his successor in a sermon delivered next to Ghadir Khum pond located between Mecca and Medina in 632 CE.

Prophet Mohammad (PBUH) delivered the sermon on the way back from Hajj pilgrimage in order to introduce the leader of Muslims.  

The sermon by the prophet of Islam is described in Hadith of the Pond of Khumm, in which he stated, whosoever's master (Maula) I am, Ali is also his (Maula) master. O' God, love those who love him.

In the Iranian capital Tehran the auspicious occasion is celebrated in “Ten-Kilometer Ghadir Festival”, a massive festival held on the streets between two landmarks in Tehran, Imam Hussein Square in eastern Tehran and Azadi Square located to the west of the capital.

Similar celebrations are held in mosques, parks and public places across other cities.

Eid al-Ghadir also makes a popular and joyous day for the brides and grooms to celebrate their wedding.