Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah Flags Off Hajj 2026 Flights, Calls for Prayers for State’s Wellbeing

Bengaluru: Chief Minister Siddaramaiah officially launched the Hajj 2026 flight operations on Sunday, sending off the first group of pilgrims from Bengaluru. On this occasion, he requested the pilgrims to remember the welfare of Karnataka in their prayers along with their personal supplications.

Addressing the gathering at the event organised by the Karnataka State Hajj Committee, Siddaramaiah said that while the pilgrims embark on their sacred journey, they should also pray for peace and prosperity in the state. He assured them that he would pray for their safe and comfortable pilgrimage.

The Chief Minister spoke about the importance of Hajj in Islam, noting that it is one of the five fundamental pillars of the faith. He explained that Muslims who are physically and financially capable are expected to perform Hajj at least once in their lifetime. He also highlighted the belief that completing the pilgrimage brings spiritual purification and forgiveness for past sins.

Quoting teachings from the Quran, Siddaramaiah emphasized the value of human life. He said that taking an innocent life is considered equivalent to harming all of humanity, while saving one life is like saving all mankind. He encouraged the pilgrims to undertake the journey with sincerity and a pure heart.

He further stressed that no religion promotes violence and said that conflicts arise due to human actions rather than religious teachings. According to him, humanity should be regarded as the highest form of religion, and those who act with goodwill towards others will receive divine protection. He also urged people to respect all religions while remaining devoted to their own.

Referring to constitutional values, Siddaramaiah highlighted the importance of fraternity, equality, and harmony in society.

Meanwhile, Karnataka State Hajj Committee Chairman Zulfikhar Ahmed Khan Tipu shared details about this year’s pilgrimage. He stated that 11,680 pilgrims from Karnataka will perform Hajj in 2026. He explained that departures will take place from three points, including Bengaluru, Hyderabad for North Karnataka pilgrims, and Mumbai for those from Belagavi and Hubballi Dharwad regions.

The first flight is scheduled for April 5, while the final departure will take place on April 21. The cost of the pilgrimage has been set at ₹3,47,000 per person. An additional ₹10,000 has been added due to rising airline fuel costs linked to international tensions. Pilgrims will need to cover this extra expense.

Zulfikhar Ahmed Khan also mentioned a new regulation introduced this year, under which children aged between 12 and 16 are not permitted to perform Hajj. He noted that Saudi authorities have already cancelled visas issued to 23 children in this age group.

Siddaramaiah also spoke about the state government’s focus on minority welfare and education. He announced that new Hajj Bhavans will be constructed in Kalaburagi and Hubballi in the 2026 to 27 budget to improve facilities for pilgrims and their families.

The event marked the official beginning of Hajj departures from Karnataka this year, with several officials and pilgrims present.