One bucket list item crossed off the life’s “compulsory to do planning list” and that too under the age of 30 – I feel very grateful I was part of this.
Finances:-
Post covid 2020 oil crisis was a blessing in disguise for me. I generated some good amount from selling my oil stocks and this covered almost all my Hajj expenses. I applied through my government Hajj scheme (Pakistan). Luckily, my name come up in the list and I was selected. I did all of my preparation from Youtube and books given by Hajj ministry
Things I saw I cannot explain in 1s and 0s:-
Around 1.8 million people (official stats -> unofficial could be higher). Gents in Ihraam (only two unsewn white cloths) and everyone doing certain rituals at the same time.
I brought half kg roasted chickpeas from Pakistan and ate this water for 2.5 days. This is very healthy superfood, 90% protein and I did not had to go to washroom. I avoided entire long queues, kept my ablution for long hours and felt very light throughout my journey
In Arafat, heat and sunlight feels paranormal. Its intensity is very high to eyes and you will notice around midday, Air conditioners also cannot control the internal temperatures as temperature reaches above 50 degree Celsius.
A man I know whom from my parent’s neighborhood, who tried to commit suicide around 10 years ago attended Hajj this year. How ironic is fate, one moment a person is thinking to end his life, the next-> he is invited into God’s house.
There is an extreme culture of (Arab) hospitality not seen anywhere else in the world. Government and private companies give free food to everyone. Trailer trucks of different companies in the sea of people, consistently distributing hygienic, packed goods.
In Medina, there is a very cool culture After Asr, Maghrib and Isha prayers -> locals bring tea thermos and distribute tea in the courtyard of Masjid Nabwi. Visitors also buy food (especially dates from nearby date market) and distribute it to other pilgrims
My walking stats during Hajj (The longest I walked in my life is on Day 4 of Hajj)
Tawaf Ziara Journey >>>
These two places in Mecca and Madina, they feel like energy points. I saw certain prayers getting answered in very short time
There is also exploitation to be seen by certain opportunists who try to fatten their wallets by using the religion card (Like Taxi operators/Guides) -> mostly on elder people who are not tech friendly. But when love for money (capitalism) exceeds love for God and being a good human, these type of things are expected
Once in your life, you should do this investment. I feel very lighthearted one of my Farz have been completed at a young age!
All praise to Allah while writing this!
My Life-My Thoughts... 