The first phase of the 58th Biswa Ijtema, hailed as one of the largest global congregations of Muslims, began with ‘aam bayan’ (general sermon) on Friday on the bank of Turag River in Gazipur’s Tongi.

Leaders of the Tabligh Jamaat and religious scholars set the tone for the event with speeches, highlighting different aspects of Islam on the main stage on Thursday evening.

Followers of senior cleric Muhammad Zubair from Dhaka’s Kakrail Mosque, the Tabligh Jamaat’s national headquarters, are attending the first phase of the Ijtema this year.

Media coordinator of the Zubair faction of the Tabligh Jamaat, Habibullah Rayhan, said the followers of Maulana Zubair from 42 districts will have their Akheri Munajat (concluding prayers) on Sunday, and those of 22 other districts will take part from Wednesday. The followers of Maulana Saad will offer their Akheri Munajat on 16 February, said Mohammad Sayem, media coordinator of the Saad faction of Tabligh Jamaat.

This is for the first time the first phase of Ijtema will be divided in two segments with two Akheri Munajats.

Thousands of volunteers, including madrasa students, are actively working to ensure a smooth experience for worshippers.

Meanwhile, security has been beefed up on the bank of the Turag River and adjacent areas, marking the event.

Every year, along with domestic devotees, many foreign devotees arrive from different countries of the world on the occasion of Ijtema. This year is no exception in this regard.

BDST: 1223 HRS, JAN 31, 2025
MSK