Around four decades ago, Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei visited Karnataka's Alipura, which helped in establishing a bond between the village and Iran. Following the death of the Iranian Supreme Leader in coordinated strikes by the United States and Israel, the residents of the village are mourning his death.
During a special prayer organised to mourn Khamenei's death, many people could not hold back their tears. The village, which is 70 km away from the state capital Bengaluru, also has a hospital named after him. Out of about 30,000 people living in Alipura, most are Shias, and the news of his death deeply affected them, news agency PTI reported.
Villagers Announce Three-Day Mourning
The residents of the village announced a three-day mourning to pay tribute to the Shia supreme leader. Residents observed silence, and shops and commercial establishments remained voluntarily closed.
All celebrations and public events have been suspended in the village to maintain a peaceful environment.
Alipura Ties With Khamenei
According to villagers, the Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei visited Alipura in 1986 after receiving an invitation. That visit established a bond between the village and Iran, they said.
A hospital was built in the village in his name, reflecting the community's respect and reverence for Khamenei. Villagers further said that many families in Alipura maintain direct connections with Iran, with some living there for education or work opportunities.
As soon as the villagers came to know about the death of Khamenei, a deep sadness settled over the village. A special prayer was organised on Sunday at the Shia mosque, where many people expressed their sorrow.
Mourners dressed in black, carried black flags, and held a march to condemn the killing. They carried Khamenei's photographs and raised slogans, paying tribute to the leader whose loss has deeply affected the community.