First phase of Bishwa Ijtema begins

The first phase of Bishwa Ijtema, the second largest congregation of Muslims after Hajj, began on the bank of Turag River in Gazipur's Tongi on Friday.

The congregation started with the a'mbayan (general sermons) of Maulana Ziaul Haque after Fajr prayers with the participation of thousands of devotees. 

In the afternoon, Jummah prayers, the biggest in memory, were held at the Ijtema ground. Maulana Zobair, leader of a section of Tabligh Jamaat, led the prayers.

However, the first phase of Bishwa Ijtema will end on January 15 while the second phase will be held on January 20-22.

Md Aminul Islam/SU