Abstract

Millions of Muslims from around the world including Bangladesh pour perform Hajj every year. Being the largest gathering of the Muslims, the Hajj has immense socio-economic and cultural impact on the Muslim society. It develops a unique symbol of unity, equality, universality, coexistence, indiscrimination, peace and tolerance among the individuals, communities and nations belonging to different races, castes, colors, and languages, which create differences in everyday life of human society. The attitude of the Hajjes of Bangladesh towards women is more liberal than others as gender interaction is a natural part of Hajj, while it is uncommon in the country. The positive teachings of Hajj produced several reform movements in Bengal such as the FarÉ’iÌi movement of Hajji Shariatullah. Hajj works as a social platform of getting together for Bangladeshi people at Makkah and Madinah. It has developed the private tour operating industry in Bangladesh to facilitate the HajjÊs. Transaction of billions of dollars takes place during Hajj, while many commodities are exchanged informally. The HajjÊs enjoy a very special dignity and status in the society of Bangladesh. Hajj creates an opportunity for inter-cultural amalgamation combining various elements of different cultures. It increases knowledge of the HajjÊs both experimental and theoretical through various means. Bangladeshi HajjÊs consider Hajj as the preparation for death; and thus try to remain isolated from the worldly activities and observe the religious duties strictly. Hajj not only moulds the HajjÊs into sincere and practicing Muslims, but also the society at large with their honesty and piety. Thus, Hajj brings immense impact on the society, economy, education, religiosity and culture of Bangladesh. The objective of this study is to identify diverse impact of Hajj on different aspects of the society of Bangladesh. The methodology used in this study is composed of critical review of literature, analysis of relevant data and information from various secondary sources and interview with the experts and individuals concerned. It also includes various perspectives of the society with a view to better understanding the influence of Hajj on the HajjÊs, non-HajjÊs and the society at large.