Bengaluru, Aug. 30 -- Karnataka Minister of Higher Education Basavaraj Rayareddy has described Islam as one of the world's greatest religions and expressed a desire to undertake the Haj pilgrimage at least once in his lifetime.

Speaking at a mass marriage programme organised by the Muslim community in Kuknoor on Sunday, August 30, Rayareddy said he does not frequently visit monasteries and temples but would like to make a pilgrimage to Makkah at least once.

"I have a desire to undertake Haj at least once. I do not frequently visit temples and monasteries, but I would like to go on Haj," he said.

Islam rooted in humanity, compassion

Rayareddy said Islam was a religion rooted in humanity and compassion, but misconceptions about the fait...