Tongi: The first phase of Bishwa Ijtema, the world’s second-largest Muslim congregation after Hajj, concluded this morning with the Akheri Munajat (final prayer) along the banks of the Turag River in Tongi, situated on the outskirts of the capital.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Akheri Munajat was led by Maulana Zubair, a top spiritual leader of Shura-e-Nezami, Bangladesh. The prayer commenced at approximately 9:11 am and continued until 9:35 am, focusing on seeking peace, welfare, and prosperity for the country, its citizens, and the global Muslim Ummah.
Thousands of devotees participated, raising their hands in prayer and echoing “Amin” throughout the Ijtema grounds and surrounding areas, creating a ceremonial atmosphere. Many were moved to tears, seeking self-purification and forgiveness from Allah.
Habibullah Raihan, media coordinator of the Ijtema organizing committee of Shura-e-Nezami, stated, “The concluding program of the Bishwa Ijtema began after the Fazr prayer on Sunday with the sermon (Aam Bayan) delivered by religious leader Maulana Abdur Rahman.” Devotees began gathering along the Dhaka-Mymensingh highway early in the morning, with those from nearby Dhaka and Gazipur districts walking to the venue to join the final prayer.
Participants, including men and women, traveled distances of up to 10 kilometers from Bhogra bypass to reach the Ijtema grounds. Many women participated by staying in different mills, factories, and households adjacent to the venue. The event also saw attendance from around 3,200 international guests from countries such as India, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and others.
The first phase of the Bishwa Ijtema started with a general sermon (Aam Bayan) following the Fazr prayer on Friday. The second phase is scheduled for February 3 to 5, with a third phase planned for February 14 to 16, which will include followers of Maulana Muhammad Saad Kandhlawi.