Srinagar, May 5, 2025 – The sacred journey of Hajj 2025 commenced with the departure of the first batch of 178 pilgrims from Bait-ul-Hujaj in Bemina, Srinagar, on May 4, 2025, bound for Saudi Arabia. The group, consisting of 96 men and 82 women, was bid farewell with warm greetings by Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, Dr. Bilal Mohi-Ud-Din Bhat, who wished them a safe and spiritually fulfilling pilgrimage. This marked the beginning of the pilgrimage for 3,622 pilgrims from Jammu and Kashmir and 242 from Ladakh, facilitated by 11 flights scheduled between May 4 and May 15, 2025.
The atmosphere at Bait-ul-Hujaj was charged with emotion as families gathered to see off the pilgrims, accompanied by chants of “Labbaik Allahumma Labbaik.” DC Srinagar, joined by SSP Srinagar Sandeep Chakravarthy, Haj Officer Irshad Ahmad, and J&K Haj Committee members, welcomed the group with flower petals. Addressing the pilgrims, Dr. Bhat expressed his congratulations and prayers. “Hajj is a divine calling and a profound journey. I wish you safety and peace, and request your prayers for Jammu and Kashmir’s prosperity,” he said, underscoring the pilgrimage’s significance.
The pilgrims were transported by bus from Haj House to Srinagar International Airport, where they boarded a direct SpiceJet flight (SG-5304) to Medina. The flight was flagged off by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who extended their best wishes for a meaningful Haj-e-Baitullah. “Hajj is a sacred opportunity, and we are dedicated to ensuring every pilgrim’s comfort and safety,” Sinha stated. Abdullah, accompanied by Advisor Nasir Aslam Wani, added prayers for the pilgrims’ well-being and spiritual fulfillment.
The J&K Haj Committee orchestrated seamless arrangements, providing transportation, luggage verification, security screening, refreshments, and swift issuance of travel documents. Pilgrims were directed to arrive at Haj House between 5:00 AM and 5:30 AM, ensuring an efficient boarding process. Facilities at Haj House and Srinagar International Airport included prayer spaces, medical support, and clear instructions, earning appreciation from the pilgrims for the hassle-free experience.
This year’s Hajj 2025, expected to occur from June 4 to June 9, 2025, pending moon sighting, will see over 122,518 Indian pilgrims, with Srinagar serving as a key embarkation point for 3,374. SpiceJet, operating 45 Hajj flights in the first phase, will transport around 15,500 pilgrims nationwide. The committee clarified that Saudi Arabia’s temporary suspension of Umrah and other visas is a standard measure to prioritize registered Hajj pilgrims, ensuring no disruptions.
Pilgrims received mandatory vaccines, including influenza and polio, and adhered to baggage restrictions. Dedicated traffic arrangements near Haj House facilitated smooth movement, particularly for those from North Kashmir. The journey, culminating in Eid-ul-Adha, symbolizes faith, unity, and devotion. DC Srinagar’s call for prayers for Jammu and Kashmir’s peace resonated deeply, reflecting the region’s hopes for harmony.
As the first batch embarks on this sacred pilgrimage, their departure from Bait-ul-Hujaj stands as a beacon of hope and spirituality, uniting communities in prayer and aspiration for a blessed * allest journey.