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Tens of Thousands Gather for Annual Biswa Ijtema in Bangladesh


Jubair1985, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons
Jubair1985, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons


What’s Happening


Tens of thousands of Muslims have gathered near Dhaka, Bangladesh, for the annual Biswa Ijtema, a major Islamic congregation known for drawing worshippers from around the world. The event, which spans three phases, is held along the Turag River in Tongi, just north of the capital. It features sermons, prayers, and religious teachings delivered by Islamic scholars.


The gathering began on Friday, January 26, with devotees arriving from various parts of Bangladesh and abroad. The event will conclude with final prayers on Sunday, January 28, when hundreds of thousands are expected to attend.


Breaking Down the Event Phases


Biswa Ijtema, meaning “world congregation,” is one of the largest gatherings of Muslim devotees globally. To accommodate the massive number of participants, the event is held in three separate phases:


  • First phase: January 26-28

  • Second phase: February 3-5

  • Third phase: February 14-16


The first phase primarily includes followers from different districts in Bangladesh, while the subsequent phases continue with participants from various regions and international guests.


Historical Significance


The Biswa Ijtema has been organized since the 1950s by the Tablighi Jamaat movement, a global Islamic missionary group focused on spiritual revival. Unlike political or sectarian gatherings, this event emphasizes prayer, religious teachings, and self-purification. Over the years, the gathering has expanded in size and prominence, becoming one of the most anticipated annual religious events in the Muslim world.


Who’s Attending?


The first phase of this year’s event has attracted a diverse crowd, including:

  • Tens of thousands of Bangladeshi worshippers

  • Around 2,150 foreign Muslims from 72 countries

  • Islamic scholars and clerics from India, Pakistan, and other nations


Participants travel great distances to join the congregation, often staying in makeshift tents along the riverbank. Many devotees see the event as an opportunity to seek blessings, engage in religious discussions, and strengthen their faith.


Security Measures in Place


Given the large number of attendees, authorities have heightened security around the venue:

  • Checkpoints and surveillance cameras have been installed

  • Plainclothes security officials are monitoring the crowd

  • The Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) and other law enforcement agencies are ensuring safety


Officials have stated that there is no specific security threat but that necessary precautions are in place to prevent any incidents.


A Devotee’s Perspective


For many attendees, the Biswa Ijtema is more than just a religious gathering—it is a spiritual experience.

Mohammed Nadim, a grocer from the northern district of Rangpur, traveled overnight to attend the event. “I come here every year to seek blessings. It gives me peace,” he shared.


Like him, thousands of others raise their hands in collective prayer, hoping for peace and forgiveness. “We want peace in our lives; we want peace in the world. May Allah accept us, may Allah forgive us,” he added.


Why It Matters?


Biswa Ijtema stands out as a unique event because of its apolitical and inclusive nature. Unlike many other large-scale religious events, it focuses solely on spiritual enlightenment, prayer, and community bonding.


The event also highlights Bangladesh’s role as a key center for Islamic scholarship and devotion, drawing participants from around the world. As it continues to grow, Biswa Ijtema remains a symbol of faith, unity, and peaceful religious practice.





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