Vasco, Sep 11 (TNN): Pilgrims from Goa and Karnataka embarking on haj have assembled in the haj camp organized by the Goa State Hajj Committee at Verna. They have reported 48 hours before their departure and are offering namaz and read holy books, reciting 'naths' (holy songs) and seeking advice for their journey.
About 831 hajis will leave from Goa to undertake the pilgrimage to Mecca and Madina, through a government scheme. Others will leave with private packages from operators. Of these 831, 185 are Goans while 646 have come from parts of Karnataka like Belgaum, Karwar and Bhatkal. Of them, an 80-year-old lady who has come all the way from Karnataka was seen walking with the help of two volunteers and found it difficult to even speak. Rabiya Bi Patel told TOI, "It's a dream journey which every Muslim wishes to undertake since birth. I am blessed with it this year." Patel will be accompanied by her son. Naseem Sayeed, one of the committee members, said, "It's their devotion to Allah. Once they reach the holy place they automatically get the courage to complete the pilgrimage."
The camp is based on the premises of Makhdoom Ashraf Nagar Co-operative Society, which runs four institutions there. Iqbal Shaikh, committee chairman said, "This is an orientation process where they are guided in everything they need to do at Mecca and Madina. Also we check their documentation and exchange currency." The camp started on September 5 and the first flight to Saudi Arabia with pilgrims was on September 7. Every day the Air India direct flight to Madina leaves with 68 passengers at 6am. But on September 13 it will take 235 hajis and on September 14, the last day, it will carry 186 pilgrims.
Shaikh said, "Chief minister Manohar Parrikar has promised us a permanent committee office and land to carry out haj camps. He has assured us that he will release funds to carry out the expenses borne by the committee during the camp." This year the committee has sent khaddim-ul-hujaj (guide) for Goan hajis and the expenditure for this package has been provided by the Goa government.
Last year 789 hajjis reached Madina with the direct flight. This is the fourth consecutive year since direct flight for hajjis started.