According to the Public Relations Office of the International Arbaeen Narrative Festival, on the eve of Arbaeen, a ceremony was held with the presence of Dr. Gheydari, President of Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences; Hojjat al-Islam Dr. Khedavi, Head of the Office of the Supreme Leader’s Representative at the University; members of the university’s board; a number of professors; media activists; and student artists, during which the official poster of the Fourth International “Arbaeen Narrative” Festival was unveiled.
In this ceremony, Dr. Gheydari, while commemorating the martyrs of the Sacred Defense, especially those of the early days of the imposed war, emphasized the importance of expanding cultural and artistic activities centered on the message of Ashura. He highlighted that Arbaeen is an opportunity to explain the profound human, social, and political dimensions of Imam Hussein’s (AS) uprising, stating: “One of the outstanding aspects of Imam Hussein’s message was his struggle against illegitimate and unqualified governance. He rose up to preserve human dignity and the Prophet’s model of governance based on tolerance, justice, and respect for human rights.”
Referring to the night of Ashura, he added: “Imam Hussein’s decision to allow his companions the freedom to choose their own path is a sign of his deep respect for the right to life and human dignity. This perspective is unique and remarkable both from a human and a religious viewpoint, and it must be reflected in narratives and artistic productions.”
The University President praised the efforts of the Office of the Supreme Leader’s Representative and the university’s cultural bodies in organizing this festival, and underlined the critical role of art in conveying religious concepts. He stated: “Showcasing values such as altruism, ethnic, religious, and national solidarity during Arbaeen is among the strengths of this event. The presence of people from diverse nations and faiths in this great march provides an opportunity to reflect a human and universal image of the message of Ashura.”
He further suggested that in order to enhance the impact of the festival’s works, audience feedback should be considered alongside jury evaluations, and that special effects and artistic facilities be used for stronger storytelling.
At the conclusion, Dr. Gheydari announced the full readiness of the University and the Cultural-Student Affairs Office to contribute to the development of cultural activities, emphasizing: “The university does not merely play a scientific role, but is also a voice of culture in society. Alongside our educational mission, we must take our cultural role seriously.”
This festival is organized by the Office of the Supreme Leader’s Representative, the Cultural-Student Affairs Office, and with the participation of student artists, and has been met with interest extending beyond the university.
