According to Moulana Ahmed Tahier Mohamed, Makkah is witnessing a significant influx of people as they prepare for the days of Hajj. This increase in population can be physically felt, with numerous pilgrims beginning to occupy previously empty areas.
Earlier in the week, Moulana Mohamed and his group of pilgrims, along with others, could move around specific locations in Makkah relatively easily. However, as more people arrived, performing the rituals in the Grand Mosque became progressively more challenging. Consequently, he advised incoming pilgrims to promptly carry out their duties to prevent getting caught in the rush.
The Growing Population in Makkah
The Hajj is an enormous annual congregation that attracts millions worldwide who gather in Makkah to fulfil their religious obligations of Hajj. It is a momentous occasion where Muslims from every corner of the globe converge upon the holy city, united in their devotion and seeking spiritual rejuvenation.
The magnitude of this gathering highlights the significance of the Hajj as one of the world’s largest and most revered pilgrimages. However, massive crowds can be overwhelming, and cause increased anxiety among individuals unaccustomed to such densely populated environments. Therefore, it is crucial to prioritise safety and remain within the confines of a designated group.
Moulana Mohamed, who has experience managing crowds during the Hajj period, stated that they had implemented various methods to ensure the well-being of their group of pilgrims. Since they arrived in Makkah, they have been practising drills to ensure the effectiveness of these measures.
“It was quite easy to make the tawaf (encircle) last night. We made the tawaf around the Kaaba, and we could feel that congestion … We tried to keep our group together, and it was a real mission … We were pushed around. We had these massive crowds that came, and they didn’t do it intentionally, but they created a block. You’ve got 50 to 60 people coming one time, 70 people coming one time and up to 100 or so people coming one time, and they just move.”
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Essential Tips Provided by Pilgrims in Makkah
First-time pilgrims, who may need more knowledge on navigating the hustle and bustle during the Hajj period, mainly when performing essential rites like circling the Kaaba and stoning the Jamarat, can benefit from crucial safety tips of experienced pilgrims.
South African pilgrims in Makkah shared their insights with Salaamedia, offering suggestions to address challenges such as crowds, high temperatures, and nervousness.
Their advice includes remaining with the group you arrived with to prevent separation from large crowds, staying hydrated as the heat can be excruciating at specific parts of the day, utilising non-peak hours to fulfil religious obligations and adhering to instruction and guidance of group leaders and security personnel.
