More young people going for Haj | Latest News India - Hindustan Times
close_game
close_game

More young people going for Haj

Hindustan Times | ByAarefa Johari, Mumbai
Oct 22, 2009 12:31 AM IST

Adnan Lokhandwala (31) and his wife Fatema (28) are among the 1.6 lakh pilgrims who will embark next week on the Haj, the annual Muslim pilgrimage to Mecca and Medina in Saudi Arabia. Aarefa Johari reports.

Adnan Lokhandwala (31) and his wife Fatema (28) are among the 1.6 lakh pilgrims who will embark next week on the Haj, the annual Muslim pilgrimage to Mecca and Medina in Saudi Arabia.

HT Image
HT Image

There is a widespread impression that the bulk of Haj pilgrims are retired senior citizens, performing their Islamic duty before their final summons. Far from it. Young, wealthy and upwardly mobile, Adnan and Fateha are part of a growing number of young people who prefer it to backpacking across Europe.

Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now.

“It is better to go on Haj when one is in one’s twenties and has fewer responsibilities,” said Fatema. “I know of couples who’ve gone on Haj directly after their marriage, instead of on a honeymoon.

“Around 85 per cent of pilgrims are in the age group of 25 to 55 years,” said G. S. Ansari, chairman of the Maharashtra State Haj Committee. “I’ve been observing this trend of younger people heading for Haj for the past 10 years.”

“Youngsters from other countries have always been going on Haj, but it was not common in India earlier,” said S. Sheikh, a lawyer and social activist in Pune.

“Being young has advantages,” said Sheikh Salim, 27, a Pune teacher, who is also leaving for Haj soon. “When one is old and weak, it is difficult to walk long distances and deal with crowds.”

Unveiling Elections 2024: The Big Picture', a fresh segment in HT's talk show 'The Interview with Kumkum Chadha', where leaders across the political spectrum discuss the upcoming general elections. Watch now!

Get Current Updates on India News, Election 2024, Mukhtar Ansari Death News Live, Bihar Board 10th Result 2024 Live along with Latest News and Top Headlines from India and around the world.
SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Share this article
SHARE
Story Saved
Live Score
OPEN APP
Saved Articles
Following
My Reads
Sign out
New Delhi 0C
Friday, March 29, 2024
Start 14 Days Free Trial Subscribe Now
Follow Us On