Mecca, (14 June 2024) — The annual Hajj pilgrimage begins today, Friday, June 14, with devout Muslims embarking on their spiritual journey to Mina, dressed in the traditional Ihram garments. The pilgrimage is expected to attract around two million participants from across the globe, including 82,772 pilgrims from Bangladesh.

Pilgrims began their journey to Mina on Thursday evening, June 13. Upon arrival, the desert of Mina will echo with the sacred chant of "Labbaik, Allahumma Labbaik, Labbaika La Sharika Laka Labbaik," signifying their devotion and submission to Allah.

June 15 (9 Zilhaj): The main part of the Hajj will take place at Arafat Maidan, where pilgrims will stand in prayer and supplication.

June 18: The five-day Hajj program will conclude with the symbolic stoning of Satan at Jamara.

To facilitate the pilgrims, the Saudi government has organized various modes of transportation. Pilgrims will spend their time in Mina engaging in prayers, from Fajr (dawn) to Isha (night), within their designated tents.

This year, the Hajj sermon at Arafat Maidan will be delivered by Shaikh Maher bin Hamad, the esteemed Imam and Khatib of Masjidul Haram.

On Sunday, pilgrims will perform the ritual of animal sacrifice, commemorating the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah.

The Hajj is one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, and this year’s event is marked by meticulous preparations and profound spiritual significance.