Faizel Patel, Radio Islam News – 24-10-2016
The South African Tourism Minister Derek Hanekom says hajj is about discovering new things, making a difference and meeting people.
Hanekom was speaking at the launch of the photo journal ‘Hajj 2016 A Journey’ by social cohesive activist Yusuf Abramjee at the Houghton Golf Course on Sunday.
Abramjee, who undertook his first Hajj this year, released the high-gloss A3 landscape coffee table book which has over 400 photographs, all taken with his iPhone 6 Plus, of #Hajj2016 which took place last month
Hanekom, says the publication of a coffee table book on Hajj by a South African, “captures the heart and soul” of the annual Muslim pilgrimage.
“Every Muslim I know, even those who are not religious, dream of going on Hajj. It is a life-changing experience. We thank Yusuf for sharing his experience. You captured the heart, soul and meaning of the Hajj. I studied the over 400 photos and they tell a rich story.”
Abramjee says while he decided to share his journey to “inspire, motivate and educate” people of all religions, the book is also about promoting social cohesion and religious tolerance.
“Muslims are often labeled as terrorists and we are wrongly associated with groups such as Al Qaeda and Boko Haram. We need to change this. Islam is a peace-loving religion…Hajj, which attracts millions of people, shows that.”
The book sells at R750 and proceeds will go to two charities- Awqaf SA and Crescent Lifestyle for “Hajj Waqf” which will be used to sponsor destitute pilgrims to travel next year.
Some 1,8 millions went on Hajj this year- the lowest figure in many years.
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