Baghdad: The Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Antiquities organized a dialogue session titled ‘The Husseini Renaissance: A Humanistic Message in the Realm of Diversity and Coexistence,’ held at the Shahrazad Hall in the headquarters of the Tourism Authority. The session was attended by the two Undersecretaries of the Ministry, Qasim Al-Sudani, and Dr. Fadhil Muhammad Al-Badrani, along with Alaa Al-Qassam, the Director General of Husseini Rites at the Shiite Endowment Office, and Jamal Al-Badri, the Deputy Head of the Hajj Authority. Additionally, a group of academics, researchers, and representatives of Iraqi religions and cultural components participated. Abdul-Adheem Al-Hasnawi moderated the session.
According to National Iraqi News Agency, Al-Badrani highlighted that the Husseini revival is more than a historical event, emphasizing its role as an ongoing reformist and humanitarian project based on the values of justice, awareness, and human dignity. He stated that Imam Hussein’s message calls for reform, challenges injustice, and promotes a culture of tolerance and coexistence.
He further noted that Iraq has historically exemplified religious and cultural diversity, which is a fundamental aspect of its national identity. The session featured contributions from Dr. Karim Al-Jizani, a professor at the University of Baghdad, Sanaa Saeed Halata, and Sheikh Qais Al-Sheikh Badr, a representative of the Mandaean Sabean community. Their discussions focused on the intellectual and humanitarian aspects of the Husseini revival in fostering peace and acceptance among Iraq’s diverse communities.
Ghaydaa Muhammad Ali, the Director of the Cultural Diversity Department, explained that the session underscored the Ministry’s commitment to promoting dialogue and tolerance. She highlighted the Husseini Renaissance as a platform for enhancing coexistence and mutual respect within Iraqi society.
The event included a screening of “The Husseini Renaissance: A Humanistic Message within the Realm of Cultural Diversity,” a documentary that explores the humanitarian dimensions of the Husseini Renaissance. An art exhibition titled “The Husseini Renaissance: A Humanistic Message” was also featured, showcasing works from ten visual artists inspired by the Battle of Karbala. The session concluded with the distribution of certificates of appreciation to the participants for their contributions.