The Chairperson of the Delhi Hajj Committee, Kausar Jahan, announced on Tuesday that 44 female pilgrims have departed for Hajj from the national capital without their Mahram. This development highlights the increasing trend of women's independent participation in this pilgrimage. Speaking to the media, Jahan congratulated the pilgrims and wished them a safe journey. She stated, '44 Hajj pilgrims are leaving without their Mahram. I extend my congratulations to them and pray for their safe and smooth journey.' She further noted that the number of women undertaking Hajj without a Mahram has been steadily rising in recent years, reflecting growing confidence and independence among women.

Jahan emphasized that the increase in women traveling for Hajj without a Mahram indicates that our sisters are becoming more 'self-assured.' She added, 'The government ensures that their journey is safe. This initiative aligns with recent policy changes that allow Muslim women to perform Hajj without a male guardian, thereby encouraging their participation.' In Islam, every individual is required to fulfill five duties (pillars), one of which is Hajj. The other four pillars include Shahada (declaration of faith), Salah (prayer), Zakat (charity), and Sawm (fasting during Ramadan).

Previously, on April 18, the first group for Hajj 2026, consisting of 371 pilgrims, departed from New Delhi to Mecca. This marked the beginning of the annual Hajj season from India. These pilgrims left for Saudi Arabia from Indira Gandhi International Airport in the presence of Kausar Jahan, who remarked, 'Today, the first flight for Hajj 2026 has departed with 371 pilgrims embarking on their journey. I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to everyone.'