Hajj 2024: Mecca gears up for world's largest Muslim congregation

Hajj is the annual spiritual journey of Muslims from all across the globe. This year, Hajj begins on June 14(Friday) and will last till June 19(Wednesday).

The six-day pilgrimage to Mecca in Saudi Arabia is of significant importance to Muslims as it is believed that individuals who come from Hajj have been cleansed of all their past sins. According to Muslim beliefs, people who complete this journey with utmost dedication are rewarded with heaven after death.

This journey of spiritual enlightenment allows devotees to connect with the almighty on a greater level. The journey of Hajj spreads the ideals of kindness, brotherhood and equality amongst the devotees with a lifelong impact on their souls.

A range of rituals are carried out by individuals to express their devotion towards Prophet Ibrahim and the principles of Islam.

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This six-day-long journey culminates with Eid al-Adha, the celebration of sacrifice. Devotees sacrifice an animal, usually a sheep or goat symbolising the willingness of Ibrahim to sacrifice his son.

World's largest congregation of Muslims in Mecca

According to officials in Saudi Arabia, more than 1.5 million foreign pilgrims visit Mecca every year for Hajj which occurs during the 12th month of the Islamic calendar. Hajj is the fifth pillar of Islam and it is said that individuals physically and financially able must undertake Hajjonce in their lifetime.

Since every year so many people visit Saudi Arabia, managing the crowd can be challenging. Back in 1987, a quota system was adopted that allowed only 0.1% of a country's population to visit.

Several cases of stampedes, tent fires, etc. have caused hundreds of deaths in the past. The Saudi officials say they have taken adequate measures to reduce the effect of heat by providing misting systems and air conditioners to ensure a safe experience for all devotees.

Hajj transcends all social, economic and political barriers. Muslims from all across the world take part in the journey of spirituality and self-cleansing.

(With inputs from agencies)