The first phase of the two-part Bishwa Ijtema, organized by followers of Maulana Zubair, begins today, Friday, on the banks of the Turag River in Tongi, Gazipur. The congregation will include the Jummah prayer, led by Hafiz Maulana Mohammad Zubair, a senior member of the Alami Shura and an elder from Kakrail. Media coordinator Habibullah Raihan confirmed the details.

After Fajr, Maulana Zia-ul-Haq from Pakistan delivered a sermon, which was translated into Bengali by Maulana Nurur Rahman. At 9:45 AM, a session on religious teachings will take place in different sections of the field, preceded by a discussion led by Maulana Jamal from India. Other key events include a lecture by Maulana Farahim from India at 10 AM for teachers, another by Professor Abdul Mannan for students, and a special sermon by Maulana Akbar Sharif at the tin-shed mosque for important guests.

From early morning, worshippers from Dhaka and nearby districts began arriving at the Ijtema ground. As the day progressed, the crowd grew, with many spreading beyond the main prayer area into surrounding locations. Thousands of people were seen heading towards the site, carrying prayer mats and wearing traditional Islamic caps.

Security measures have been heightened, with personnel from RAB, police, and the organizing committee ensuring safety across the venue. Large numbers of worshippers have traveled from Dhaka, Gazipur, and surrounding districts, with many staying at relatives’ homes in Tongi or nearby areas. Others are bringing mats, bedding, and plastic sheets to prepare for the long gathering.

According to the event's media coordinator, the Bishwa Ijtema is organized annually by the Tablighi Jamaat, with all activities planned through consultation. The venue is systematically arranged, with designated sections for worshippers from different districts, cooking areas, toilets, and facilities for ablution and bathing.

Salahuddin, who traveled from Board Bazar in Gazipur, expressed his excitement about attending the massive Jummah prayer, where millions are expected to participate. Another attendee, Ruhul Amin, stated that he left early to secure a place near the main stage.

Deputy Commissioner (South) of Gazipur Metropolitan Police, N.M. Nasiruddin, confirmed that security has been strengthened this year, with multiple law enforcement agencies deployed.

The first phase of the Ijtema will be held in two segments, running from January 31 to February 2, with worshippers from 41 districts and parts of Dhaka attending this session.