Hyderabad: Advisor to the Telangana Government Mohammed Ali Shabbir announced Haj airfare relief for pilgrims travelling for Haj-2026. He said the State government decided to bear the additional ₹10,000 airfare imposed on each pilgrim. The decision provided major financial relief to thousands of devotees.
He made the announcement while addressing Haj pilgrims from Nizamabad and Kamareddy districts at Haj House in Hyderabad. Later, he flagged off buses to Rajiv Gandhi International Airport. He congratulated Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy for extending support to pilgrims.
The Haj Committee of India had introduced additional airfare charges due to the prevailing situation in West Asia. However, the Telangana government intervened quickly. As a result, nearly 7,000 pilgrims from the State benefited from the support measure.
Haj airfare relief brings financial support to pilgrims
Shabbir Ali said about 4,000 pilgrims from Telangana had already reached Holy Mecca. Meanwhile, arrangements continued for the remaining travellers. He described the pilgrimage as a sacred opportunity and said Allah had chosen the pilgrims as guests for Haj 2026.
He quoted Hadith and said a properly performed Haj purifies a believer. Therefore, he urged pilgrims to follow discipline and maintain patience. In addition, he asked them to offer prayers regularly during the journey.
He also referred to challenges linked to international travel. Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) prayed for ease in performing Haj, he noted. Accordingly, he advised pilgrims to remain calm during immigration checks and travel procedures. He asked them not to worry about delays or formalities.
Moreover, he urged pilgrims to spend maximum time in worship at Haram Sharif. He encouraged them to continue reciting Talbiyah throughout the journey. He added that sincere prayers offered after seeing the Holy Kaaba are always heard.
Shabbir Ali also advised pilgrims to take care of their health. Since weather conditions can be hot, he asked them to drink enough water. Furthermore, he requested them to follow medical advice and maintain proper nutrition.
He stressed that worship should remain the main focus of the journey. Therefore, he asked pilgrims to avoid disputes and distractions. Instead, he encouraged them to dedicate time to spiritual reflection and prayers.
In addition, he highlighted the importance of educational and social progress within the community. He said reservations had benefited many people. He also encouraged the adoption of new technologies, including Artificial Intelligence, for future development.
Finally, he appealed to pilgrims to pray for peace and prosperity. He requested them to remember him and others in their prayers at Makkah and Madina. He also thanked Haj Committee members and volunteers for their continuous service. Before formally flagging off the buses, he prayed for a safe journey and accepted Haj for all pilgrims.
