Basit Zargar/Srinagar

Emotional scenes were witnessed at a special arena of the Srinagar International Airport as the first batch of 178 pilgrims from the twin states of J&K and Ladakh departed for the holy city of Mecca in Saudi Arabia to perform Hajj.

Secretary Hajj Shujaat Ahmad Qureshi speaking with pilgrims at Srinagar airport

The group, comprising 96 men and 82 women, gathered early at the Hajj House in Bemina where family members, officials, and religious leaders bid them a heartfelt farewell. Emotional scenes marked the send-off, with many pilgrims expressing gratitude and humility at being chosen for this once-in-a-lifetime journey.

A pilgrim in Srinagar bidding farewell to her family

This year, over 3,600 pilgrims from Jammu and Kashmir are expected to perform Hajj.

The departures will take place in phases, with a total of 11 flights scheduled between May 4 and May 15.

Pilgrims leaving for airport from Hajj House, Srinagar

The final flight, scheduled for May 15, will carry 321 pilgrims.

To ensure a seamless experience, the Jammu and Kashmir Hajj Committee conducted orientation sessions and provided comprehensive guidance on Hajj rituals, health protocols, and logistical arrangements. Pilgrims were also administered all necessary vaccinations, including those for influenza and polio. 

A couple leaving for Hajj from Hajj House, Bemina

Authorities have tightened security around the embarkation area to manage crowds and streamline the travel process.

A special traffic plan was implemented to assist pilgrims traveling from far-off districts, especially North Kashmir, with a dedicated crossing point near the Hajj House.

Scene at Hajj House, Bemina, Srinagar

Speaking to the media, Shujaat Ahmad Qureshi, Executive Officer, Hajj committee of J&K and Ladakh, said, “The arrangements this year have been carefully planned to make the journey as smooth as possible. We pray for the safety and acceptance of our pilgrims’ prayers.

”Pilgrims are expected to remain in Saudi Arabia for 42 to 46 days, depending on their return schedule, during which they will perform a series of sacred rites culminating in the Day of Arafah and Eid al-Adha

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The annual pilgrimage of Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam and a deeply significant spiritual obligation for Muslims. The departure of the first batch from Srinagar marks a meaningful milestone in the religious calendar of the region.