Vishwa Ijtema: Last prayer of the first phase today

The Dhaka Times Desk Vishwa Ijtema is being held on the banks of Turag in Tongir amid tight security, solemn atmosphere and massive religious fervour. Today is the final prayer of the first episode.

Last Friday, the first phase of 3 days of the 6-day World Ijtema began with the Baad Fajr Aam Bayan. The world's largest Friday congregation was held on the first day of the Tablighi Jamaat's annual conference, Vishwa Ijtema, on the banks of the Turag River in Tongir, a suburb of the capital Dhaka.

In addition to millions of worshipers coming to Ijtema, thousands of people from the capital and neighboring areas are participating in this largest congregation by various vehicles including railways, roads, waterways and many on foot.

Millions of Muslims in the country including about 12,000 representatives from 93 countries are listening to the speeches of the top leaders of Tabligh Jamaat. The pilgrims are busy in worship.

The first phase of Biswa Ijtema, which is known as the second religious gathering of the Muslim world after the holy Hajj, will end today before noon with the last prayer. Then the second phase of Ijtema will start again on January 20 after a break of 4 days. On January 22, the second phase, the 52nd edition of the World Muslim World Meeting Fair, Vishwa Ijtema, will end with the last prayer.

After the Fajr prayer, Muslims from all walks of life have been seen running towards the Ijtema grounds wearing caps, Punjabis and holding Zaynamaaz. Devotees will participate in prayer. Amen, Amen, the Turag arrows will be resounding.