Lebanon Mourns Ziad Rahbani in Majestic Farewell
Famed Artist Honored with Citywide Procession, Mother Fairuz Attends
Beirut, Lebanon – A wave of grief and deep respect washed over Lebanon as the nation bid a final farewell to the iconic artist and musician Ziad Rahbani. A grand funeral procession on Monday, July 28, 2025, commenced in the capital, drawing immense crowds and a rare public appearance from his legendary mother, the artist Fairuz.
A City United in Sorrow
The solemn ceremony began at “Khoury” hospital on Al-Hamra Street, where countless fans gathered from early morning. They held aloft pictures of Rahbani, along with bouquets of flowers and the Lebanese flag. His unforgettable melodies, which resonated with generations of Lebanese, filled the air from loudspeakers, as church bells tolled in unison with the coffin’s departure.
Throngs of people, summoned by social media calls, filled the surrounding streets, traveling from across Lebanon to honor one of the nation’s most significant cultural figures. Rahbani was celebrated as a towering talent in music and political theater throughout the Arab world.
Procession Through Beirut’s Heart
The funeral cortège advanced slowly, met with heartfelt applause and cries of farewell. Mourners showered the coffin with roses and rice as it moved through Spears Street and the Ashrafieh neighborhood. The procession continued towards Al-Mahdithi in Bikfaya, where Rahbani was laid to rest at the “Raqd Al-Sayyida” church following the prayer service.
A Mother’s Grief and Public Solidarity
The most emotionally charged moment was the presence of Fairuz, appearing composed despite her profound sorrow. She arrived at the church with her daughter Rima Rahbani, sister Hoda Haddad, and other family members. Photographers swarmed her, prompting her family to appeal for privacy and respect during this difficult time.
The funeral gained widespread attention online, transforming into a powerful demonstration of love and loyalty. Artists, intellectuals, activists, and ordinary citizens participated, many holding banners with lyrics from Rahbani‘s famous works, such as “Without nothing .. I love you.”
Many called for a national day of mourning, recognizing Rahbani‘s immense artistic and cultural contribution to the Lebanese and Arab consciousness. Some mourners also wished to carry his coffin through the streets of the Sanayeh area, where he lived and worked.
A Legacy of Art and Criticism
Ziad Rahbani passed away on Saturday, July 26, at the age of 69, following a prolonged battle with cirrhosis. His passing marks the loss of a multifaceted artist, a master of music, theater, and incisive political commentary. His work critically reflected Lebanese life, offering sharp observations on societal and political realities.
Known for his distinctive fusion of Eastern melodies and bold lyricism, Rahbani left an indelible mark as a writer, lyricist, composer, and musician. His unique artistic vision influenced countless artists in the region.
Fairuz, his mother, had largely remained out of the public eye in recent years. Her previous public appearance was in 2020, when she hosted French President Emmanuel Macron at her home.