Srinagar- More than 1.5 million pilgrims from around 150 countries performed the annual Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia this year, including approximately 1.75 lakh pilgrims from India, officials said.
In a unique health initiative aimed at promoting physical well-being among pilgrims, the Hajj Committee of India organized a Physiotherapy and Exercise Camp at Hajj House in Mumbai before the departure of pilgrims for Makkah.
As part of the programme, a special health-awareness exercise e-book containing physiotherapy guidance, fitness tips and preventive exercises was published in four languages — English, Hindi, Urdu and Gujarati. According to organizers, it was the first time in the history of Hajj pilgrim services in India that a dedicated physiotherapy exercise e-book was prepared and distributed for pilgrims.
The e-book was prepared by physiotherapist Dr. Syed Aakib Kazi under the guidance of expert doctors from reputed hospitals in Mumbai. The initiative aimed to educate pilgrims about maintaining physical fitness and preventing common musculoskeletal problems during the demanding pilgrimage.
Apart from the publication, physiotherapy awareness videos and exercise guidance were disseminated through social media platforms from Hajj House Mumbai, enabling pilgrims in Makkah to continue following fitness routines during their stay in Saudi Arabia.
Dr. Kazi also conducted fitness training sessions for pilgrims before and after Hajj. Participants were trained in exercises designed to relieve pain in the neck, shoulders, back and legs, as well as strength-building exercises to improve overall body fitness and endurance.
Chief Executive Officer of the Hajj Committee of India, Shanavas C. (IAS), emphasized the importance of physiotherapy and exercise in maintaining good health. He said exercise training and walking practice before undertaking Hajj were extremely important for pilgrims.
Union Minister for Minority Affairs and Parliamentary Affairs, Shri Kiren Rijiju, described Hajj as one of the most sacred journeys and significant spiritual experiences in the life of a Muslim.
“Every Muslim desires to perform Hajj at least once in his or her lifetime and visit the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah. The Government has made every effort to help fulfil this aspiration, and no shortcomings will be allowed from our side,” Rijiju said.
He added that the Government of India had arranged comprehensive facilities for health check-ups and medical treatment for pilgrims to ensure their safety and well-being during the pilgrimage.
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