Shock & silence: Karnataka’s Alipur village mourns Khamenei’s death

Bengaluru/Alipur: Grief swept through Alipur village in Chikkaballapur district, about 70km from Bengaluru, following reports of the death of Iran's supreme leader Ali Khamenei in the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.The Shia-majority village, home to around 30,000 people, announced a three-day mourning period. Shops and other commercial establishments remained shut Sunday, while public events and celebrations were cancelled. Residents observed silence and gathered for special prayers at the local Jafria Masjid.
Speeches were delivered, after which a 1km rally was taken out from the mosque to the local bus stand, led by Mir Abbas Ali. Many mourners, dressed in black and carrying black flags, joined the procession condemning the killing. Some carried photographs of Khamenei and raised slogans during the march. Several people were seen in tears during the prayer meeting.Shafeeq Abidl, 68, who has lived in Alipur all his life, told TOI that Khamenei was regarded as a religious guide by many. "He is our religious guru and to many across the world. The leader also started a hospital here, which helps many people of all religions. During the Iranian revolution of 1991, when Iran had MPs, they came to Alipur," he said.Villagers recalled that Khamenei had visited Alipur four decades ago at the community's invitation. They expressed anguish over the strikes against Iran and urged the Union govt to take steps to safeguard Indians residing in Gulf countries and to facilitate the return of those willing to come back.Punith, sub-inspector of police, Manchenahalli, said adequate security arrangements were made to prevent any untoward incidents. The district administrations of Chikkaballapura and Kolar have opened helpline centres to assist local residents currently in Gulf countries.