First batch of Hajis to return today

No elaborate ‘Wazwan’ amid sombre festivities

The first batch of Haj pilgrims is scheduled to arrive here tomorrow after performing the annual pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia.
“The first batch of pilgrims will arrive tomorrow. Two daily flights carrying Haj pilgrims will arrive here till October 3,” said an official at the Haj House, Bemina.
Even as a festive atmosphere will prevail in households across the Valley once the pilgrims arrive, locals are not throwing elaborate ‘wazwan’ feasts.
“Though the return of Haj pilgrims is like Eid for us, we did not prepare wazwan when my uncle left for Haj. And, as he returns, there will be no major function at home. The guests will be served tea only,” said a local resident.
Normal life in the Kashmir valley has remained affected after the killing of Hizbul Mujahideen commander Burhan Wani on July 8 that has caused widespread protests.
Haj is among the five fundamentals of Islam and every believing Muslim aspires to perform the Haj pilgrimage at least once in his or her lifetime.
The departure and arrival of the pilgrims in the Valley is a joyous occasion as relatives, friends, colleagues and neighbours can be seen pouring in for at least a week to greet the pilgrims once they return home.
Meanwhile, Minister of State for Haj and Auqaf Farooq Ahmad Andrabi, as per an official statement, directed the officials concerned to ensure adequate arrangements to facilitate the hassle-free arrival of the pilgrims and subsequent smooth journey to their respective destinations.
Over 6,450 persons from Jammu and Kashmir performed Haj this year.

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