India and Iran highlight historic ties as Jain monk joins Khamenei funeral

The upcoming state funeral of Iran’s former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is set to become a showcase of India‑Iran historic relations. Jain spiritual guide Acharya Lokesh Muni received a formal invitation from Iran’s supreme leader office, confirming his attendance.

Muni’s presence, as highlighted in the invitation, is intended to symbolize the deep respect and friendship that has endured between the two nations for decades. The Indian delegation will be led by Bihar’s Governor Lt. Gen. (Retd.) Syed Ata Hasanain and Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margaret.

Security preparations across Tehran are at an unprecedented scale, anticipating a crowd of 12‑20 million people. Authorities have imposed traffic restrictions, heightened police presence, and arranged medical facilities to ensure safety during the multi‑day mourning period.

This diplomatic engagement coincides with the Jain monk’s broader peace advocacy, which recently garnered bipartisan support in the United States, underscoring his role as a global messenger of non‑violence.