By Muhammed Mujahid
Hyderabad: The air at the Nampally Hajj House turned thick with devotion and spiritual fervour on Sunday as the first caravan of pilgrims (Azmeen-e-Hajj) prepared to embark on their life-altering journey to the holy city of Makkah. In a ceremony marked by prayerful silence and occasional chants of ‘Labbaik’, Muhammad Azharuddin, the State President (Amir-e-Halqa) of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind (JIH), Telangana, officially flagged off the convoy.
The departure was more than just a logistical movement; it was an emotional milestone for the hundreds of pilgrims and their families who gathered at the venue. As the green flag was raised, a wave of nostalgia and hope swept through the crowd.
“This journey is a testament to faith and patience. We urge every pilgrim to be an ambassador of peace and to remember the nation in their prayers,” shared one of the organisers.
The event saw a strong presence of community leaders and state officials, ensuring the smooth departure of the pilgrims.
Maulana Ghulam Afzal Biabani (Khusru Pasha), Chairman of the Telangana State Hajj Committee, was seen coordinating the final arrangements alongside the JIH leadership.
Former JIH State President Hamid Mohammed Khan and Acting President M.N. Baig Zahid were also in attendance to offer their best wishes.
State Vice Presidents Mohammad Sadiq Ahmed and Hafiz Rashaduddin joined the lineup of dignitaries who bid a tearful yet joyous farewell to the travellers.
As the Volvo buses rolled out of the Hajj House gates, they carried with them the aspirations of thousands, marking the beginning of the 2026 Hajj season for the city.
