ASSAM: OVER 3,400 PILGRIMS FROM NORTHEAST TO GO FOR HAJ

Over 3,400 pilgrims from the Northeast will set out for Mecca and Medina this year for Haj.

In this connection, a Haj pilgrims’ felicitation-cum-farewell function, organised by the North East Haj Pilgrims’ Reception Committee Haji Musafir Khana, was held at the East Guwahati Idgah Field on Friday. The basic objective behind the function was to perform the “Aakhri Duwa” which is the last prayer before leaving for Haj.

During the programme, ten Haj pilgrims were felicitated by the Committee. Nekibur Zaman, the Executive Chairman of Haj Pilgrims’ Reception Committee, chaired the meeting which was also attended by Minister Ranjit Dutta, Bodoland People’s Front MP Biswajit Daimary and several other dignitaries.

Dutta said 500 of the 3,400 pilgrims would start their journey from the Lokopriya Gopinath Bordoloi International airport in Guwahati.

“The Assam Government is providing with all facilities for the pilgrimage. It is a pure ritual of the Islam and we want that the pilgrims return healthy. Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal couldn't attend the programme as he is monitoring the flood situation but he wants this event to be successful and he has also sent a written letter. We are providing gamusas to each pilgrim,” Dutta said.

Daimary, in his speech, said: “I am feeling very lucky to be a part of this programme. By attending this programme, I am getting the opportunity to be religious for a moment. For having faith in Allah, I am devoid of any evil thoughts at this moment. For Haj pilgrimage, people prepare for years and they have become mentally prepared for this. It is not an easy task. My good wishes are with the pilgrims and I want that they return healthy”.