Thousands of British Muslims arrived in Hampshire today for three days of worship at the UK's longest running Islamic conference.
Ahmadi Muslims from across the UK have welcomed each other to the Oakland Farm in Hampshire for the annual event known as the 'Jalsa Salana' after COVID caused the event to be cancelled in 2020.
The Jalsa Salana has been running for over 50 years and the event serves to highlight the the true peaceful teachings of Islam and to increase knowledge and understanding. A key part of the weekend is the attendance of the global Islamic Caliph of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, Hazarat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, who delivers a speech on each day.
Adeel Shah, one of Britain's youngest Imams, shared his joy at the return of the event:
"During COVID-19, we have had youth members of the community active all across the UK who were ready to run errands for their neighbours, make a friendly phone-call pick up groceries, and other things too- as we believe serving our community is an integral part of faith... this event is a rejuvenation for many of us and it fuels us to keep going, which is amazing during the hard times the world is experiencing"
Those who could not attend due to COVID were sent food packages in order to be included in some way.
Prior to the pandemic, over 35,000 people from across the globe attended the last Jalsa. This year, only fully vaccinated and tested UK residents had the chance to attend, of which 4,000 were chosen.
Abid Khan, Press Secretary for the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community Said in a statement:
"Whilst we are sad that due to social distancing measures it is still not possible for everyone to attend, unquestionably this is a wonderful and joyous occasion for our community"
For those who cant attend, or those interested in learning more about the Jalsa, it will be broadcast online. You can watch on Youtube by clicking here.
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