Short Description
Former actor Sana Khan is set to transform her Haj experience, opting for the new high-rise accommodations in Mina instead of traditional tent stays. Explore this modern shift in pilgrimage.
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3 minutes and 45 seconds
Main Article
Sana Khan, a former actor who left the entertainment industry in 2020 to embrace a different life with cleric-businessman Mufti Anas, is preparing for her fourth pilgrimage to Haj. This time, however, her experience will diverge significantly from tradition. For the first time, instead of staying in Mina’s iconic tent city, she will be residing in a modern multi-storey tower, illustrating a notable shift in how pilgrims approach the sacred journey.
Traditionally, Haj participants have slept in temporary tents, known as khemas, during their stay in Mina. This practice has been a staple for centuries, with millions experiencing this unique communal atmosphere. However, in recent years, Saudi authorities have initiated the construction of several high-rise accommodations within the Mina valley. These contemporary towers offer luxurious amenities, including air-conditioned rooms, clean toilets, spacious kitchens, and larger prayer areas. Such enhancements reflect an evolving pilgrimage experience, catering to those who seek comfort during this sacred time.
As the Haj season approaches, the Haj division of the Indian Ministry of Minority Affairs is encouraging private pilgrims to secure their accommodations by January 15. Minister Kiran Rijiju emphasized that “timely booking will help avoid last-minute difficulties” and ensure that the pilgrimage process is smooth and well-organized. Of the 1,75,000 Indian Haj quota, 52,000 will travel through Haj group organisations and private tour operators, highlighting the growing trend toward upgraded experiences in pilgrimage tourism.
Various tour operators are keenly marketing these upscale options, showcasing “premium packages” that transition from traditional tents to modern towers. According to Khalid Kherada of Al Khalid Tours and Travels, this shift is a phased approach aimed at enhancing comfort, particularly to accommodate the changing weather conditions in Mina. However, this evolution has received mixed reactions; some traditionalists argue that the tent experience is inherently reflective of the pilgrimage’s historical essence. A senior cleric noted that while tents provide a “primitive feel,” Islamic law does not expressly mandate that pilgrims must stay in this way.
The contrast between nostalgia and modernity in the Haj experience continues to provoke debate. While many embrace the comfort and convenience of high-rise accommodations, others argue for the spiritual significance tied to traditional practices. As Sana Khan prepares for her journey, she embodies the essence of this modern pilgrim—a blend of tradition and contemporary needs, shaping the future of Haj for generations to come.
Short Summary
Sana Khan’s upcoming Haj marks a pivotal shift as she opts for a high-rise stay in Mina, moving away from traditional tents. This transition reflects broader changes in pilgrimage experiences, highlighting comfort and modernity versus traditional values. As this trend grows, it sparks discussions about the evolving nature of pilgrimages in the contemporary world.
