Imam Reza, source of unity, peace, guidance for Iranian nation: Custodian

Ayat. Marvi, the Custodian of Astan Quds Razavi (AQR) urges national approach to pilgrimage, calls for investment in Mashhad’s infrastructure.

Speaking at a meeting of Imam Reza Task Force of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, held at Imam Reza Shrine, Ayat. Ahmad Marvi emphasized the need for a national and cross-sectoral approach to pilgrimage, describing Imam Reza as a central pillar of guidance, serenity, and unity for the Iranian people.

“Mashhad should be recognized as a spiritual, cultural, and civilizational hub”, he stated.

AQR’s Custodian honored the memory of Martyr Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, under whose leadership the task force was established. The session was attended by the ministers of foreign affairs and cultural heritage, the governor of Khorasan Razavi, the mayor of Mashhad, and other national and provincial officials.

The top official praised the ministers’ cultural and civilizational approach to pilgrimage and noted: “No other Imam spoke as extensively on politics, governance, and leadership as Imam Reza. The historical context of his life allowed for a deeper and more explicit articulation of these concepts, which today can serve as a guiding light for Islamic society”.

Ayat. Marvi stressed: “Imam Reza shrine is not merely a burial site offering logistical services to pilgrims. Rather, it remains a living source of spiritual blessings, just as it was during the Imam’s lifetime”.

He said that people find divine tranquility and moral direction at this sacred site.

He also pointed to serious infrastructural challenges in Mashhad, particularly the lack of parking and urban facilities, despite 80 percent of pilgrims traveling by private vehicle.

He called for urgent government support and emphasized that Mashhad must be viewed through a national lens.

Prior to his remarks, the ministers of foreign affairs and tourism discussed strategies to facilitate pilgrimage and promote religious tourism. They expressed readiness to collaborate in enhancing services for pilgrims and strengthening Mashhad’s international standing.

Keywords: Imam Reza shrine, Ayat. Marvi, pilgrimage infrastructure, Mashhad development