A Pilgrim’s Heart: An Umrah Journey from Karachi – Written by: Ms. Naila Kohati
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A Pilgrim’s Heart: An Umrah Journey from Karachi
Written by: Ms. Naila Kohati
The cold, crisp air of a Karachi December morning still lingers in my memory—a stark contrast to the warmth that was about to envelop me, both spiritually and physically. Last year, I embarked on a 15-day Umrah pilgrimage to Makkah and Madinah, a journey to seek closeness to Allah and purify my soul.
The Beginning
The preparations were a whirlwind of excitement. Every detail, from booking flights to packing my Ihram, felt like a prayer. On the flight from Karachi, with fellow pilgrims, I recited the Talbiyah in my heart, the words “Labbayk Allahumma Labbayk” resonating deeply. This wasn’t just a trip; it was a chance to reconnect with the divine.
The Holy Cities
Landing in Jeddah, a wave of emotion washed over me. In Makkah, seeing the Kaaba for the first time took my breath away. The Tawaaf, moving in a synchronized circle with thousands of others, was surreal—I felt like a small part of a vast, divine cosmos. Days in Makkah were a blessed blur of prayers, the Sai, and the peaceful energy of the Haram Sharif.
After a week, we journeyed to Madinah. Seeing the iconic Green Dome of the Prophet’s Mosque, tears welled up. It was a different kind of feeling—a deep love and respect for the final resting place of the Prophet. Praying in the Riad-ul-Jannah, a small part of the mosque said to be a piece of paradise, felt like a dream.
A Profound Transformation
The 15 days flew by, each one a lesson in humility and gratitude. I connected with people from all over the world, united by our faith. The journey wasn’t just about visiting holy sites; it was about internalizing the lessons of Islam and renewing my commitment.
As I flew back to Karachi, my heart was heavy, but my soul was filled with gratitude. My Umrah pilgrimage was a spiritual awakening, a journey that has forever changed me. The memory of the Kaaba, the sound of the Adhan, and the serenity of the Prophet’s Mosque are etched in my heart, a constant reminder of the enduring power of faith.
