Staff Reporter :
The first phase of the 58th Bishwa Ijtema, one of the largest gatherings of Muslims, commenced yesterday on the banks of the Turag River in Tongi, on the outskirts of the capital, Dhaka.
Devotees from across the country and abroad have gathered to participate in this grand congregation, organized by Tabligh Jamaat.
The Ijtema began early in the morning after Fajr prayers with Aam Bayan (general sermons) delivered by renowned scholars, including Pakistani religious cleric Maulana Ziaul Huq.
This first phase of the congregation will conclude with the Akheri Munajat (final prayers) on Sunday, February 2.
On the first day of the gathering, thousands of devotees participated in the Jummah prayers, led by Maulana Jubayer Ahmed.
The spiritual atmosphere was filled with prayers, supplications, and religious discussions as devotees sought blessings and engaged in acts of worship.
This year, the Bishwa Ijtema is being held in three phases to accommodate the large number of participants. The first phase, currently ongoing, will continue until February 2.
The second phase is scheduled to take place from February 3 to 5, while the third phase will be held from February 14 to 16.
According to organizers, devotees from different parts of Dhaka and 41 other districts are participating in the first phase.
Meanwhile, the second phase will host attendees from the remaining parts of Dhaka and 22 other districts.
The Akheri Munajat for the first phase will be held on February 2, while the final prayers for the second phase will take place on February 5.
The third phase of the Ijtema, scheduled from February 14 to 16, will be attended by followers of Maulana Muhammad Saad Kandhlawi.
Authorities have implemented strict security measures in and around the Ijtema grounds to ensure the safety of all attendees. The entire area has been placed under CCTV surveillance, with control rooms monitoring the congregation.
Security archways have also been installed at all entry points to enhance security and facilitate the smooth movement of devotees.
With the first phase underway, devotees continue to gather in large numbers, immersing themselves in prayers and religious teachings as the spiritual congregation progresses toward its concluding moments.
