Jalsa Salana 2024: A Celebration of Peace and Brotherhood

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A Vision Realised in East Hampshire

This past weekend, more than 43,000 Muslims from around the globe gathered at a farm near East Worldham to participate in Jalsa Salana, a three-day event dedicated to peace, prayer, and brotherhood.

A Global Gathering

Held at Oakland Farm, Jalsa Salana is the UK’s largest Muslim convention and a cornerstone event for the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community. Attendees traveled from as far as Mauritius and Malaysia to be part of this grand assembly, which spanned 208 acres and was meticulously managed by several thousand volunteers.

A Message of Peace

This year’s Jalsa placed special emphasis on prayers and the promotion of peace, urging Muslims to contribute to reducing global volatility and uncertainty. The Head of the worldwide Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, His Holiness Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, delivered a moving sermon, urging followers to embrace tolerance and spread peace.

“Spread companionship, peace, and love in all directions,” His Holiness proclaimed during the Friday morning prayers. “Say ‘Salam’ to one another, whether you know that person or not. Because the greatest protection we have is love.”

Global Resonance

The significance of Jalsa Salana resonated worldwide, with millions tuning in to watch His Holiness and Rafiq Hayat, the national president of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, raise the Ahmadiyya and British flags. The event underscored the community’s motto, “Peace for all, hate for none.”

The car parks, filled with vehicles bearing number plates from Germany, Croatia, Poland, and beyond, showcased the extensive distances attendees traveled to be part of this remarkable gathering.

Smooth Logistics and Highlights

Despite minor concerns about attendees using local lanes instead of main routes, the event avoided the congestion issues of previous years. Bordon councillor Adeel Shah kept the community updated on expected busy times, with only minor delays reported.

The weekend was packed with memorable moments, including the formation of a vast human chain on Sunday in a symbolic gesture for world peace. Guest speakers from Uganda and Canada delivered powerful speeches, and messages of support were received from faith leaders and His Majesty King Charles.

A Temporary Marvel

The convention site, divided into male and female sections, featured various shops and exhibitions dedicated to science, humanitarian projects, and education. Attendees were treated to free meals provided by a dedicated team of volunteers, with the “roti-house” and kitchen operating nearly 24 hours a day.

Perhaps the most astonishing aspect of Jalsa Salana is its temporary nature. The entire site is constructed and dismantled within 28 days, a testament to the incredible dedication and organization of the volunteer team.

Conclusion

Jalsa Salana 2024 was a resounding success, embodying the spirit of peace, unity, and brotherhood. As we reflect on this inspiring event, we look forward to future gatherings and the continued promotion of love and tolerance. Jazakallah to all who participated and contributed to making this event unforgettable.

Stay tuned for more updates and highlights from Jalsa Salana, and join us in spreading the message of peace from the comfort of your own home.

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