The Bishwa Ijtema (or Bisho Istema), (World Congregation or Global Congregation or Meeting) is an annual
Tabligh Islamic movement congregation held at Tongi, Bangladesh by the river Tu rag. The event focuses on prayers and meditation and does not allow political discussion
. The local police estimated the number of attendees of 2007 ijtema to be 3 million
while in 2010 the number of attendees was 5 million
The first meeting was reportedly held in 1946
(although various sources indicate other dates for this) and continues to be organized by the Bangladesh Tablighi Jamaat. It lasts three days and is attended by over five million Muslims
, making it the second largest congregation after the
Hajj to Mecca . The program concludes with the
Akheri Munajat, or final prayer. For forty-one years Tongi has been the chosen location, although similar programs are held on a lesser scale in other countries. The
Ijtema is non-political, and therefore perhaps it draws people of all persuasion. Prayer is held for the spiritual adulation, exaltation and welfare of the Muslims community. This immensely popular program gives the people of Bangladesh an opportunity to interact with Muslims from other countries and is commonly attended by prominent political figures.
The congregation takes place at an area comprising 160 acres (0.65 km
2) of land (0.25 square mile). Devotees from approximately 80 countries, including the host country, Bangladesh, attend the three-day Ijtema seeking divine blessings from Allah. In recent years, over seven thousands foreign delegates attend the congregatation each year. Special rates are provided by Bangladesh Biman's world wonder fund.
Despite the large number of devotees living within a confined space, generally there is very few problems of sanitation, cooking, and internal movements. It is believed to be possible because of the minimalist approach adopted by the devotees. Devotees have reduced their own requirements and developed a respect for others' requirements.
Following are the lectures of 2011 ijtima
.
Haji Abdul Wahab Sb - Talk 2 1of5
DownloadHaji Abdul Wahab Sb - Talk 2 2of5
DownloadHaji Abdul Wahab Sb - Talk 2 3of5
DownloadHaji Abdul Wahab Sb - Talk 2 4of5
DownloadHaji Abdul Wahab Sb - Talk 2 5of5
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