The century-old 'Boro Masjid' in Hajiganj of Chandpur has earned a reputation of holding one of the largest congregations on Juma'atul Wida, the last Jumma (Friday) prayer of Ramadan, over the years.

This year was no different despite the risk of Covid-19 outbreak.

Around 1 lac people gathered at the mosque ignoring the scorching sun and wearing masks.

Although devotees were supposed to join prayers maintaining social distancing, by 11 am the first two floors of the huge mosque was filled to the brim by Muslim devotees.

Not only the mosque but also the surrounding Ahmadia Alia Madrasa grounds and buildings, Jamia Ahmadiyya Qawmi Madrasa Bhaban, Hajiganj Tower, Rajnigandha Market, Hajiganj Plaza, Business Prime Bank Bhaban and the former municipality building was completely occupied by the worshippers within 12:30 pm.

Also read: Juma’atul Wida observed

By 1 pm, the wave of Muslim devotees spread till  the Cumilla-Chandpur regional highway which even halted the movement of transportation during the period.

At the end of the prayers, Imam and Khatib Alhaj Mufti Abdur Rauf offered special prayers for the welfare of the country and sought a world free of Covid -19. 

During the munajat, the sky and air became muffled by the sound of worshippers saying 'Amin' after the imam.

Regarding the preparations for the Jamaat of Juma'atul Wida, Shakil Ahmed, the Motawalli (Acting) of the Hajiganj Historical Grand Mosque, said,  "Due to the epidemic, special measures have been taken to perform Juma'atul Wida prayers this time as compared to other years.  We have tried our best to serve the worshipers.

He further said that the police force of Hajiganj police station, various social organizations and local organizations have provided us with adequate support for the peaceful and orderly conduct of prayers.  I express my sincere gratitude and appreciation to them and look forward to their continued support in the future.

Juma'atul Wida or the last Friday prayers in congregation in Ramadan, is meant for saying farewell to the glorious month of fasting.