Srinagar, May 26 -- By Prof. M. Aslam

Two million Muslims travel to Mecca annually to circle the Kaaba, to run where Hajar once ran, and to stand before God as guests rather than spectators.

I made this journey years ago, returning from a World Bank fellowship in Washington DC, with a body that moved on its own terms.

I had learned to accommodate its limits during decades of academic life. I knew that the sacred path welcomes travellers of all kinds.

Hajj stands as one of Islam's Five Pillars, fixed to specific dates, obligatory for those able to make the journey. Umrah comes with fewer fixed dates. Muslims may perform this voluntary pilgrimage at any time, entering Mecca to cleanse the soul and seek forgiveness.

I chose Umrah becaus...