The first phase of the 58th Bishwa Ijtema, one of the largest Muslim gatherings globally, concluded on Sunday, February 2, with the Akheri Munajat, or final prayer, at the Ijtema ground in Tongi on the outskirts of the Bangladeshi capital Dhaka.

The event, which seeks peace, prosperity, and the welfare of the world and the Muslim community, was led by Maulana Zubair Ahmed, a prominent cleric from Tablig Jamaat Bangladesh and the Pesh Imam and Khatib of Kakrail Jame Masjid.

The Akheri Munajat commenced at 9:15 am and concluded at 9:36 am, with thousands of devotees participating, raising their hands in prayer for divine mercy, forgiveness, and blessings for the Muslim Ummah and the welfare of Bangladesh.

The Ijtema, held on the banks of the Turag River, began on January 31 with general sermons (Aam Bayan) following the Fajr prayers, delivered by scholars including the notable Pakistani cleric Maulana Ziaul Huq. The congregation attracted thousands of Muslims from both within Bangladesh and abroad, with a significant number joining for the Jummah prayers led by Maulana Jubayer Ahmed.

The first phase of the Ijtema began on January 31st on the banks of the Turag River with Aam Bayan (general sermons) delivered by scholars, including Pakistani cleric Maulana Ziaul Huq, following Fajr prayers.  Thousands of devotees, both local and international, participated in Friday's Jummah prayers, led by Maulana Jubayer Ahmed.

This year's Ijtema is being held in three phases. The first phase ran until February 2nd, the second phase is scheduled for February 3rd to 5th, and the third phase will take place from February 14th to 16th.  Devotees from specific districts will attend each phase.  The Akheri Munajat for the second phase is scheduled for February 5th.  The third phase will be attended by followers of Maulana Muhammad Saad Kandhlawi.

To ensure the safety of the attendees, extensive security measures were implemented. The Ijtema ground and its vicinity are under constant CCTV surveillance, with security control rooms and archways installed at all entry points.

The Bishwa Ijtema, organized by Tablig Jamaat, serves not only as a religious congregation but also as a significant cultural event in Bangladesh, fostering a sense of unity among Muslims from various backgrounds. The event underscores themes of peace, spiritual renewal, and community welfare.

As the first phase concluded, the focus now shifts to the upcoming phases, with preparations in place to accommodate more devotees in an atmosphere of faith, peace, and security. The Bishwa Ijtema continues to be a pivotal event in the spiritual calendar of many Muslims, drawing participants from across the globe. (ILKHA)