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The framework
within which the Haj is conducted is governed by the rules and
regulations of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Indian pilgrims,
though significant in number, are only a small fraction of the
total gathering of the Islamic ummat which performs the
pilgrimage. Hence pilgrims need to adjust and co-operate with
the fellow pilgrims.
The
Haj entails a physically taxing daily regimen. During stay in
Makkah and Madinah it would be normal for pilgrims to walk a
considerable distance on foot. Further, the rituals during the
core Haj period involve multiple mass movements in the Mashaer
region within specified timings and therefore demand a
willingness to cope with the physical stress and strain of a
magnitude which pilgrims may not be accustomed to previously.
The pilgrim in advanced age must have a companion accompanying
him. Keeping photocopies of all medical records handy would be
useful.
The Hajis should familiarize themselves about the rituals and
the living conditions in Saudi Arabia and prepare themselves to
face the rigours of Haj. However, what is
most important is keeping one’s spirits high, having patience
and not losing sight of the main goal of the visit i.e. Haj and
immersing oneself in the worship of Allah.
The Role of Maktabs
/ Moallims
The regulations governing the performance of the Haj stipulate
that all pilgrims on arrival in the Kingdom are allocated to
“Maktabs” which provide a number of essential services to them.
The “Maktabs” managed by mutawifeen/moallims appear to have
changed with the passage of time and they do not have any
specific religious roles relating to guiding pilgrims in
performance of Haj. They confine themselves to providing
reception services at the airport, movement of pilgrims to
Makkah, their transport in various parts of the Kingdom
including the Mashaer region, accommodation in Mina and ensuring
that pilgrims do not stay back after the Haj. Pilgrims should
be thoroughly briefed about the role of Moallims. On arrival the
travel documents of pilgrims are taken over by the Maktab to be
handed over only at the departure terminal. A photo
identification is provided to all pilgrims by the Maktab. This
should be kept carefully and carried at all times during the Haj.
Pilgrims are required to wear a metal bracelet which indicates
their passport number and nationality before getting into the
plane in India. It is an essential means of identification and
should never be taken off, even during bath or wudu.
Pilgrims are not permitted to travel outside Makkah, Madinah or
the Mashaer region without the permission of their Maktab since
their visas do not permit visits to Jeddah or elsewhere in Saudi
Arabia. Pilgrims who venture to do so face arrest and
deportation.
All the Moallims looking after pilgrims from
India belong to South Asian Moassasa which is the largest
Moassassa (Establishment) and is also called as Moassasa Janoob
Aasia in Arabic. |
