Imagine this: you’re on a pilgrimage to Mecca, but instead of flying or driving, you’re riding a horse. Not just any horse, but one you’ve carefully chosen and trained to travel thousands of miles across continents. This is the incredible journey three pilgrims, Abdelkader Harkassi Aidi, Omar El Mouden, and Ali El Mouden, undertook in their “Hajj on Horseback” project.
They weren’t just recreating an ancient tradition, they were sharing their adventure with the world. Their Instagram and TikTok accounts exploded with followers, captivated by their daring feat and the daily challenges they faced.
From the moment they set off from Spain, their journey was filled with heart-stopping moments. Imagine the sheer panic when their horses bolted in a muddy tunnel in France, one even nearly drowning! Or the days they spent searching for their horses in Bosnia, only to find them wandering through a minefield. These were not just physical challenges, but tests of faith, resilience, and their ability to navigate the unexpected.
Their journey wasn’t all hardship, though. There were moments of camaraderie, of sharing meals under the stars, and of connecting with people from all walks of life along the way. Their social media posts captured these moments, offering a glimpse into the beauty and the challenges of their incredible journey.
Hajj on Horseback wasn’t just a pilgrimage, it was a testament to the power of faith, the strength of human spirit, and the ability to connect with the world through the magic of social media. It was a story that resonated with thousands, reminding us that sometimes, the most extraordinary journeys are the ones taken on horseback, through ancient traditions, and with a modern twist.
Content adapted by the team from the original source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/06/11/world/europe/hajj-horses-spain-mecca.html
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