Mashad, Aug 16, IRNA - The 13th Imam Reza International Festival is slated to start simultaneously in 31 Iranian provinces and 79 countries as of today, an Iranian official said on Sunday.

Talking to IRNA, Managing director of Imam Reza International Foundation Javad Jafari reiterated that the event would be held in seven sections including culture, art, research, cinema, media, cyber, children, youth as well as academics.
The 8th Shia leader, Imam Reza (PBUH), was born in Medina and is widely known for his extraordinary scholarship and saintly characteristics.
He is remembered today for his many outstanding qualities including his all-encompassing knowledge, kindness towards slaves, unshakable faith and nobility.

By IRNA