The first batch of Haj pilgrims departed from Srinagar for Saudi Arabia on Saturday to perform the annual pilgrimage.
The pilgrims were seen off by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah at the airport.
An official said that a total of 4,764 pilgrims from Jammu and Kashmir are scheduled to perform Haj this year, with the first batch of 431 pilgrims leaving from Srinagar for Medina Munawwara. On the opening day of departures, three flights would take off from Srinagar, carrying a total of 431 pilgrims, including 230 men and 201 women.
Haj, one of the five pillars of Islam, holds profound significance for Muslims, and every believer cherishes the aspiration to undertake this sacred journey at least once in their lifetime.
In the Valley, the departure of the intending Hajis turned into an emotional and joyous occasion. Homes of the pilgrims witnessed a steady stream of relatives, friends, neighbours and well-wishers, all gathering to offer prayers, blessings and heartfelt farewells.
Many accompanied the pilgrims to the Haj House at Bemina, turning the premises into a scene of both celebration and quiet tears.
Poignant moments unfolded at Haj House Bemina, where loved ones embraced each other tightly, their eyes moist, as religious slogans filled the air.
“We will pray for peace, prosperity and the well-being of all,” a pilgrims said.
The J&K administration has made all necessary arrangements at the Haj house .
Kashmir chief cleric Mirwaiz Umar Farooq requested pilgrims to not only to pray for themselves, but for peace where there is war.
“Alhumdulilah today the first batch of Hujjaj from Kashmir departs for the blessed journey to bait Ul lah in Makkah. Praying for their safe travel and acceptance of Haj before the maker. To the hujaj I request that as you stand on the plains of Arafat, in that most profound and sacred moment, remember those suffering among the ummah. Raise your hands not only for yourselves in prayer, but for peace where there is war, justice where there is oppression, healing where there are wounds and dignity for all of humankind,” he said on X.
