The pavilion of the Imam Ali Holy Shrine, organized by the Department of Intellectual and Cultural Affairs, witnessed remarkable attendance. Visitors engaged extensively with its diverse cultural and scholarly stations during the Baghdad International Book Fair. This participation formed a distinctive and prominent contribution to the current edition of the fair.
Regarding the competitions and cultural activities, Karrar al-Hilu, Head of the Department of Intellectual and Cultural Affairs, explained to the Shrine’s News Center:
“The participation of Imam Ali Holy Shrine in this year’s book fair has been notably successful, owing to the wide variety of activities and stations featured within the pavilion.”
Daily Online Competitions
Al-Hilu highlighted that one of the pavilion’s most significant activities was its competitions. Among these was a literary contest consisting of poetic riddles composed by the poet Hasanain Qaftan. These verses were designed to introduce the legacy of Imam Ali (peace be upon him), the history of his sacred shrine, and the city of Najaf al-Ashraf.
The competition was held daily and concluded with an electronic raffle in the presence of participants. Ten winners were selected each day, each receiving a special coupon from the “Read” initiative with a substantial monetary value.
Al-Hilu emphasized that these activities would continue for five days, combining engaging formats with the broader goal of enhancing public awareness regarding the life of Imam Ali (peace be upon him), the shrine’s heritage, the city of Najaf, and its renowned scholars. The coupons further enabled winners to purchase academic and reference works—among the most valuable benefits offered by the exhibition.
The “Read” E-Coupon Initiative
Al-Hilu also announced the launch of the ‘Read’ electronic coupon initiative. The program includes diverse societal groups such as university students, seminary scholars, researchers, children, adolescents, youth, and even the elderly.
With its dynamic blend of culture, knowledge, and creativity, the pavilion of the Imam Ali Holy Shrine continues to establish its distinguished presence at the Baghdad International Book Fair. It offers visitors a comprehensive experience that enriches the intellect and opens new horizons for study and research.
