On January 8, as part of her ongoing official visit to Saudi Arabia, Union Minister for Women and Child Development and Minority Affairs, Smriti Zubin Irani, embarked on a momentous journey to the sacred city of Madinah, one of Islam’s most revered locations.
In a statement shared on microblogging site X, Irani described her historic visit, which included exploring the surroundings of the revered Prophet’s Mosque, Al Masjid Al Nabwi, the iconic Uhud Mountain, and the periphery of the Quba Mosque – recognized as the first Mosque in Islam. She expressed the profound significance of these visits, graciously facilitated by Saudi officials, highlighting the deep cultural and spiritual engagement between India and Saudi Arabia. Irani shared several pictures documenting her visit.
Accompanying Irani on this historic trip was Minister of State for External Affairs and Parliamentary Affairs, V Muraleedharan.
In an official statement released in New Delhi, a spokesperson emphasized the landmark nature of this visit, marking the unprecedented acceptance of a non-Muslim delegation in Madinah. This unique gesture underscores the exceptional nature of the bilateral relations between India and Saudi Arabia.
This visit forms a crucial part of an ongoing diplomatic mission, during which a significant milestone was achieved with the signing of the bilateral Hajj agreement for Hajj 2024 between India and Saudi Arabia. The delegation, consisting of senior officials from the Ministry of Minority Affairs and Ministry of External Affairs, aimed to fortify ties and gather insights into the preparations necessary for the upcoming Hajj pilgrimage.
Beyond diplomatic matters, the delegation engaged with Indian volunteers dedicated to serving Hajj pilgrims, expressing appreciation for their selfless efforts during Hajj 2023. Interactions with Umrah pilgrims from India provided valuable insights into the diverse needs and expectations of Indian Muslims undertaking these religious journeys.
The visit’s significance lies in its potential to offer firsthand insight into the intricate arrangements required to ensure the comfort and well-being of Indian pilgrims during Hajj 2024. The Indian government reiterated its commitment to providing necessary facilities and services to Indian Muslims participating in the Hajj pilgrimage, ensuring a comfortable and spiritually fulfilling experience.
Earlier in the day, Irani held enriching discussions with the Indian diaspora, including dedicated Hajj volunteers and community members. Productive dialogues with Saudi and Indian business professionals emphasized the pivotal role of economic ties in fostering strong bilateral relations.
In addition to these engagements, the minister explored Al-Balad, Jeddah’s historic district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
This exceptional gesture by Saudi Arabia, welcoming a non-Muslim delegation to Madinah, reflects the strength of bilateral relations between India and Saudi Arabia. As both nations continue to strengthen ties, this historic visit is poised to contribute significantly to mutual understanding and cooperation in the realm of religious and cultural exchanges.
Madinah, one of Islam’s holiest cities, holds profound religious significance for Muslims worldwide. Nestled in the Hejaz region of Saudi Arabia, Madinah is renowned as the city to which the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) migrated, marking the inception of the Islamic calendar. The delegation’s visits to Al Masjid Al Nabwi, Uhud Mountain, and Quba Masjid further enriched their understanding of the historical and spiritual importance of these sacred sites.
