The Hajj is an Islamic pilgrimage to the city of Mecca (Makkah), and a religious duty that every able-bodied Muslim (who can afford to do so) should do at least once in his or her lifetime.
Till recently, the Saudi Government had not permitted Bollywood actors from performing Hajj. Bollywood greats such as Mohd. Rafi (singing legend), Dilip Kumar, Amjad Khan (Gabbar Singh), Ghazal singer Talat Mehmood and few others had expressed their desires to do the Hajj but were not given permission by the Saudi Government.
However, it seems the Saudi Government is making some exceptions to the rule.
Aamir Khan is the first Bollywood celebrity who was given a visa to perform hajj at Islam’s Holy place ‘Makkah’ (Mecca). Aamir also took his mother along, and his group resided at the 7 star hotel ‘Al-Massa’ located opposite Haram Sharif.
Soon after, even thespian actor ‘Dilip Kumar’ left for Hajj with his wife Saira Banu. The couple was accompanied by their family doctor, relatives and close friends. Dilip Kumar (real name Muhammad Yousuf Khan) thanked Allah for giving him the strength to go to Mecca at the age of 90.
‘Mubarak Ho Tum Sab Ko Hajj Ka Mahina’ song from the movie ‘Coolie’
Recently, even Veena Malik (along with her husband) were fortunate to make the trip. Talking about her holy trip, Veena said, “Every Muslim is obliged to travel to Mecca, and perform the Islamic ritual of the Hajj at least once in their lifetime, because it is the fifth pillar of Islam. I consider myself and Asad lucky and the experience had the purest impact on me.”
Travelling to Makkah (Mecca)
Mecca is the capital of Makkah Province in Saudi Arabia. The city is located 70 km inland from Jeddah in a narrow valley.
WARNING: Non-Muslims are strictly prohibited from entering the city of Mecca. Anyone who’s not able to provide proof of being a Muslim is likely to be deported from the country. As a solitary exception, the Mecca bus terminal (outside city limits) is open to all.
