One of the most important religious occasions among Shia Muslims is the 15th of the eighth Islamic month of Sha'ban which is the birthday of twelfth Imam of Shia Muslims, Imam Mahdi (may God hasten his reappearance). The occasion of Mid-Sha'ban is marked by devotion and celebration among Muslims, especially the Shia.
Imam Mahdi, according to Shia belief, was born on July 29, 869 CE (Sha'ban 15, 255 AH) in the city of Samarra , in modern-day Iraq.
Mid-Sha'ban has special significance for Muslims throughout the world and is celebrated in Islamic countries such as Iraq, Egypt, Bahrain, Yemen and Iran.
Birthday ceremony of Imam Mahdi is Iran's biggest festival of lights and happiness across the country and all Shia and Sunni Muslims and even non-Muslims celebrate the event and share their happiness. According to Islamic beliefs, the Savior Imam Mahdi will be accompanied by Jesus Christ PBUH after his reappearance and in his fight against the evil.
Keeping up with the tradition, the people distribute cookies, sweets and juice on the streets greeting the passer-bys by congratulations.
