Tongi, Jan 31 (V7N) — The first phase of the 58th Bishwa Ijtema, one of the largest congregations of Muslims worldwide, commenced on Thursday evening after Maghrib prayers at the banks of the Turag River in Tongi. The event, which began with a keynote address by Maulana Ibrahim Deolar of India, continues today, Friday, with a sermon on faith and belief delivered by Maulana Ziaul Haque of Pakistan after Fajr prayers.

Later in the morning, Talim sessions are being conducted in various sections of the congregation. At 10 a.m., the country’s largest Friday prayer will take place, led by Maulana Zubair. A massive number of devotees from different districts of Bangladesh, as well as international participants, have gathered for the event.

The Bishwa Ijtema is being held in two phases this year. The first phase will continue until February 2, while the second phase is scheduled from February 3 to February 5, with devotees from 22 districts and parts of Dhaka participating in this phase. The concluding prayer (Akheri Munajat) for each phase will be held on February 2 and February 5, respectively.

To facilitate travel for devotees, Bangladesh Railways has introduced 14 special train services. Additionally, traffic control measures have been implemented on highways to ease congestion.

Security at the event has been heightened, with around 10,000 law enforcement personnel deployed across five designated sectors to ensure safety and maintain order.

The Bishwa Ijtema, organized by the Tablighi Jamaat, is a major spiritual gathering where thousands of Muslims come together for prayers, religious discussions, and spiritual renewal. The event continues to draw attention from around the world as an integral part of Bangladesh’s religious and cultural landscape.

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