Is the First Flight of Hajj Pilgrims from J&K Departing for Saudi Arabia Today?
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Synopsis
The first batch of Hajj pilgrims departs from J&K for Saudi Arabia, marking the start of a sacred journey. With more than 3600 pilgrims this year, emotional farewells are witnessed as families send off their loved ones. The arrangements have been streamlined, easing the process for those undertaking this holy pilgrimage.
Key Takeaways
- First batch of Hajj pilgrims leaves from J&K.
- More than 3600 pilgrims set to perform Hajj this year.
- Special transport arrangements for pilgrims.
- Emotional farewells highlight the significance of the pilgrimage.
- Trends show fewer applicants compared to available seats.
Srinagar, May 4 (NationPress) The inaugural group of this year’s Hajj pilgrims departed from the Hajj House on Sunday morning, heading towards the Srinagar International Airport to catch a special flight to Saudi Arabia.
This year, more than 3600 pilgrims from Jammu and Kashmir will embark on the sacred journey of Hajj.
The first wave, consisting of 178 pilgrims—96 men and 82 women—arrived at the Hajj House located in the Bemina area of Srinagar city early in the morning.
All pilgrims were instructed to arrive at the Hajj House between 5 a.m. and 5:30 a.m. to finalize preparations for their departure to the airport.
To facilitate their journey, authorities arranged special buses to transport the pilgrims to the airport, but no friends or family members will be permitted to accompany them.
Shujaat Ahmad Qureshi, the Chief Executive Officer of the J&K Hajj committee, confirmed that the first flight with pilgrims is scheduled to depart from the Srinagar International Airport later today.
On Saturday, senior officials, including V.K. Bidhuri, the Divisional Commissioner of Kashmir, visited the Hajj House to assess the final arrangements for the pilgrims.
All Hajj pilgrims from the union territory, including those from Jammu division, must report to the Hajj House in Srinagar for their onward journey to Saudi Arabia.
Emotional farewells were observed at the Hajj House, where families bid goodbye to their loved ones embarking on the pilgrimage.
It was a bittersweet moment, filled with joy for the departing pilgrims and sadness over the impending separation, as the round trip can take over a month.
Unlike previous years when lotteries were held for seats, the past three years have seen fewer applicants than available seats, making the journey more accessible for those who can afford it.
Point of View
This year's Hajj pilgrimage reflects a blend of tradition and modern organization. The emotional farewells highlight the deep significance of this journey, while the streamlined process indicates a commitment to facilitating religious practices for the community. The trend of fewer applicants compared to available seats raises questions about accessibility and participation in this important religious event.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the first batch of Hajj pilgrims leave from J&K?
The first batch of Hajj pilgrims departed from the Hajj House on May 4.
How many pilgrims are leaving from Jammu and Kashmir this year?
Over 3600 pilgrims will leave from Jammu and Kashmir to perform Hajj this year.
What arrangements were made for the pilgrims' transport?
Special buses have been arranged to transport the pilgrims to the airport, but no family members can accompany them.
What emotional scenes were witnessed at the Hajj House?
Families bid emotional farewells to their loved ones, creating a mix of joy and sorrow.
How has the applicant trend changed in recent years?
In recent years, the number of applicants has been lower than the allotted seats, making the journey easier for those who can afford it.
