First batch of pilgrims leave for Haj from Bhopal, 6 year-old is youngest

A huge crowd gathered at Taj-ul-Masajid to bid goodbye to their near and dear ones who embarked on Haj from Bhopal. In the first batch, a total of 233 people departed for Jeddah (Saudi Arabia).

A huge crowd gathered at Taj-ul-Masajid to bid goodbye to their near and dear ones who embarked on Haj from Bhopal on Wednesday. In the first batch, a total of 233 people departed for Jeddah (Saudi Arabia) on Wednesday.

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The youngest member of the first batch, who departed on Wednesday was six years old, while the oldest member was 87 years old. However, the departure, scheduled at 6pm, extended by three hours due to delay in the arrival of Air India flight.

Minorities welfare minister Antar Singh Arya bade farewell to the first batch of Haj pilgrims amidst the Haj Dua "Labbaik Talabiya". Wishing safe and successful journey to Haj pilgrims, Arya urged them to pray for MP's peace and progress.

Arya, Congress leader PC Sharma, BJP state president Nand Kumar Singh Chauhan, state Congress president Arun Yadav and many other dignitaries were present on the occasion.

In all, 1,280 Haj Pilgrims from Bhopal and adjoining areas would depart for pilgrimage this year. Departure of pilgrims in batches will continue till September 21.