Senior Indian political leaders and government representatives paid tribute to former Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in Tehran on Friday as Iran began a multi-day state funeral expected to draw millions of mourners and numerous international dignitaries.
The ceremonies are taking place at Tehran’s Grand Mosalla, where officials have implemented extensive security and traffic arrangements ahead of the funeral procession.
Indian Delegation Pays Respects
An Indian delegation visited Tehran to offer condolences and pay tribute to the late Iranian leader.
Among those present were:
- Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti
- Senior Congress leader Salman Khurshid
- Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita
- Bihar Governor Syed Ata Hasnain
According to India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the high-level representation reflects the longstanding civilisational, cultural and diplomatic ties between India and Iran.
Funeral to Continue for Several Days
Iran has planned an extended series of ceremonies to honour the former Supreme Leader.
The schedule includes:
- July 3–4: Public tributes at Tehran’s Grand Mosalla.
- July 5: Funeral procession through the streets of Tehran.
- July 6: Ceremonies in the holy city of Qom.
- July 7: Procession in Karbala, Iraq.
- July 9: Final burial at the Imam Reza Shrine in Mashhad.
Authorities expect millions of people to participate throughout the ceremonies.
Tehran Tightens Security
Iranian authorities have announced extensive security measures during the funeral period.
These include:
- Closure of government offices for several days.
- Traffic restrictions across central Tehran.
- Partial closure of Tehran’s airspace from Friday.
- Complete closure of airspace on Monday during the main funeral procession.
Officials say the measures are intended to ensure public safety during the large gatherings.
Iran Revolutionary Guards Chief Appears Publicly
The chief of Iran’s Revolutionary Guards, Ahmad Vahidi, made a public appearance in Tehran to pay his respects before Khamenei’s coffin.
Iranian media described it as one of his first public appearances since the recent regional conflict, during which senior Iranian military leaders faced heightened security risks.
India Reaffirms Bilateral Ties
The Ministry of External Affairs stated that India’s participation highlights the strong historical relationship between the two countries.
The ministry said shared civilisational links and people-to-people connections continue to provide an important foundation for political and economic cooperation between India and Iran.
Funeral Draws International Attention
Alongside Indian representatives, delegations from several countries are expected to attend various stages of the funeral ceremonies, reflecting Iran’s diplomatic engagement with partners across Asia, the Middle East and beyond.
Authorities continue preparations as large crowds gather in Tehran for one of the country’s most significant state ceremonies in recent years.
