The second phase of Bishwa Ijtema is set to begin on Friday on the banks of the Turag River in Tongi, Gazipur.
Followers of Maulana Saad Kandhalvi will participate in this phase.
A visit to the Ijtema ground revealed that jute canopies have been set up by tying them to bamboo poles.
Devotees from different districts have started entering the Ijtema ground and settling in their designated areas (khitta).
While attendees began arriving on Wednesday night, the crowd has significantly increased since Thursday morning.
This year’s Bishwa Ijtema will conclude with the Akheri Munajat (final prayer) on Sunday.
Sayem, the media coordinator for Saad’s followers, said: "Our Ijtema will officially begin after the Fajr prayer on Friday (February 14). Many of our fellow devotees have already arrived at the ground, and more will continue to come throughout the day. With everyone’s participation, we hope to conduct this Ijtema beautifully."
He further mentioned, "For the first time in the history of Bishwa Ijtema, Shab-e-Barat will coincide with the event. Millions of people present at the Ijtema ground will offer Shab-e-Barat prayers together. After the prayers, they will observe fasting and perform Jumu'ah prayers in a grand congregation. This is a significant spiritual blessing for us."
