Over 8,600 Pilgrims Embark on Hajj from Karnataka; CM Stresses Unity and Harmony
Bengaluru, May 2025: A total of 8,635 pilgrims from Karnataka commenced their sacred Hajj journey this year, with Bengaluru serving as the primary embarkation point. The pilgrims departed in 27 flights, with over 8,000 taking off from Kempegowda International Airport and the remaining from neighboring states.
CM Siddaramaiah Calls for Communal Harmony
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, addressing the inaugural Hajj flight ceremony, emphasized the importance of unity and equality among all communities.
“Living like children of one mother is the best contribution we can make to society. Muslims, Hindus, and Christians must see each other as brothers and sisters. Only then can we achieve true harmony,” he said.
The CM urged the pilgrims to pray for the nation’s prosperity on behalf of Kannadigas, adding, “God desires equality, not a society divided by hatred.”
Systematic Preparations Ensure Pilgrim Comfort
Zulfikar Ahmed, Chairman of the Karnataka Hajj Committee, highlighted the meticulous arrangements made for the pilgrims.
*”We conducted a 15-day program at Hajj Bhavan, including training sessions and a Hajj Walkathon to prepare pilgrims for rituals in Makkah,”* he said.
A team of 51 Hajj inspectors stationed in Saudi Arabia ensured seamless coordination, assisting pilgrims with accommodation, food, and logistics.
“We received 11,000 applications, but 2,600 were cancelled due to various reasons. The remaining 8,635 pilgrims were accommodated efficiently,” Ahmed added.
Government Support and Enhanced Facilities
The Karnataka Minority Affairs Ministry, led by Minister Zameer Ahmed Khan, arranged free langar (community meals) at Hajj Bhavan for pilgrims and their families.
Sarfaraz, Executive Officer of Hajj Operations, praised the collaborative efforts.
“The discipline and dedication of our volunteers and inspectors ensured a smooth journey for all. We instructed our teams to address grievances promptly,” he said.
Infrastructure Upgrades and Future Plans
The Karnataka government has allocated funds in its 2025 budget for an additional Hajj Bhavan building in Bengaluru to accommodate more pilgrims.
Pilgrims Express Gratitude
Departing pilgrims lauded the improved facilities and digital reforms, making their journey more comfortable. Many pledged to pray for peace, national unity, and Karnataka’s prosperity.
Regional Departures
While most pilgrims flew from Bengaluru, those from Bidar and Gulbarga departed from Hyderabad due to proximity. The city also served as an embarkation point for some pilgrims from Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh.
The Hajj Committee reiterated its commitment to ensuring a seamless spiritual journey, reflecting the state’s dedication to welfare and communal harmony.
Key Highlights:
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8,635 pilgrims from Karnataka embarked on Hajj 2025.
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CM Siddaramaiah stressed unity and equality in his address.
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51 Hajj inspectors deployed in Saudi Arabia for pilgrim assistance.
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Free langar provided at Hajj Bhavan for pilgrims and families.
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New Hajj Bhavan building proposed in state budget.
Key Quotes:
From CM Siddaramaiah:
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“Living as children of one mother is the best contribution to society. Let Hindus, Muslims, and Christians stand together in harmony.”
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“Pray for the nation’s prosperity—Karnataka’s pilgrims carry our hopes to the holy land.”
Zulfikar Ahmed, Hajj Committee Chairman:
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“From training to travel, we’ve left no stone unturned to ensure a seamless Hajj experience for pilgrims.”
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“Our 51 Hajj inspectors in Saudi Arabia are dedicated to assisting pilgrims at every step.”
Sarfaraz, Hajj Operations Officer:
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“The hard work of volunteers and officials made this journey possible. We prioritize pilgrim comfort above all.”
