The historic streets of Old Lucknow were flooded with mourners and protesters today, Sunday, March 1, 2026, as the Shia community gathered in massive numbers to protest the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
The protest, which began at the Chota Imambara, comes in the wake of a devastating joint US-Israeli air strike on Tehran that not only claimed the life of the 86-year-old leader but also reportedly killed several of his family members.
The Protest: “Khamenei is Immortal”
The demonstration turned the state capital into a sea of black banners and photographs of the late leader.
- The Route: Thousands of protesters marched from the Chota Imambara toward the Bada Imambara, chanting slogans like “Khamenei Amar Rahein” (Khamenei is immortal).
- Anti-US/Israel Sentiment: Participants voiced fierce opposition to the United States and Israel, burning effigies and calling the strike an act of “imperialist terrorism.”
- The Message: Religious leaders addressing the crowd described Khamenei as a “voice for the oppressed” and warned that his death could trigger a global conflict.
Security Lockdown in Uttar Pradesh
Given the high emotional stakes, the Lucknow administration has moved into high gear:
- Heavy Deployment: Hundreds of personnel from the Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) and local police have been stationed in sensitive zones across Old Lucknow.
- Advisory: Police officials have appealed for calm and issued a stern warning against the spread of misinformation on social media that could incite communal disharmony.
- Drone Surveillance: Authorities are using drones to monitor the density of the crowds and ensure the procession follows the designated route.
Global Context: The Hormozgan Tragedy
Adding fuel to the local anger were reports from earlier this morning regarding the rising death toll from the strikes in Iran.
- The Tragedy: A US-Israeli strike reportedly hit a girls’ elementary school in the Hormozgan province of Iran.
- Casualties: The death toll from the broader regional strikes has now climbed to 148, further intensifying the international backlash against the military operation.
Impact on Indian Institutions
| Entity | Current Status |
| CBFC / Education | CBSE has postponed Class 10 & 12 board exams in the Middle East due to the conflict. |
| Aviation | Air India has cancelled all flights over Iranian and Israeli airspace. |
| Diplomacy | EAM S. Jaishankar remains in constant touch with regional leaders to prevent a “total war.” |