Tearful reunions and tight embraces marked an emotional morning at Bhopal Airport as the first flight of returning Hajj pilgrims touched down on Friday.
The flight carrying 160 pilgrims, mostly from Bhopal, landed around 6 am to scenes of jubilation. Waiting families rushed to greet their loved ones, draping them in garlands, offering blessings, and embracing them with visible emotion.
Some elderly pilgrims were escorted out in wheelchairs, drawing extra care and reverence from relatives. Many were overcome with tears as the long-awaited reunion unfolded.
Top Islamic cleric in.tje city Shehar Qazi Mushtaq Ali Nadvi, who was present to personally greet the pilgrims, called the moment one of “joy and gratitude”. He offered prayers for the acceptance of their pilgrimage.
The flight, organised by the Hajj Committee of India, included 87 men and 73 women. Most were from Bhopal, with a few from Narsinghpur, Raisen and Satna districts.
Pilgrims described their Hajj as life-changing. Airport authorities, the Hajj Committee, and local administration had ensured smooth arrangements for arrival, medical support and further travel.
Additional return flights from the Bhopal embarkation point are expected over the next few days, with similar preparations in place for each group’s welcome.