An Islamic revival in Azerbaijan: The Road to Hajj | Featured Documentary

Summary

The documentary follows Azerbaijanis preparing for the Hajj amid a wider revival of Islamic faith.

Islam took root in the region in the seventh century. Under Soviet rule, beginning in the 1920s, atheism became state policy: Muslim leaders were persecuted, and many mosques were closed or destroyed. Since Azerbaijan gained independence in 1991, mosques and religious schools have reopened, and more people have turned to Islam, although many Azerbaijanis remain secular. The film says that while 95 percent identify as Muslim, a much smaller share actively practices the religion.

Samira Salimova

Samira Salimova, a 31-year-old mother of two, says her great-grandmother helped shape her faith. She learned about Islam and the Quran when she was young, despite religion being viewed unfavourably at the time. Her mother, like many older Azerbaijanis, did not observe religious practices, though she still wished to make the Hajj.

After a difficult marriage and separation, Samira found comfort and renewed hope in prayer. The pilgrimage seemed financially out of reach until a friend of her mother’s offered to pay for her plane ticket. As she prepares to leave, Samira expresses mixed emotions about the journey and being away from her family.

Kamel Al-Mammadov

Kamel Al-Mammadov grew up under Soviet communism. He became interested in Islam after his wife, Aygun, embraced the faith and encouraged him to do the same. He says Islam gave him support and purpose. Through work and saving, the couple managed to afford the Hajj together.

The journey

Around 1,700 pilgrims are set to travel from Azerbaijan, most by bus. Their six-day overland journey will pass through Georgia, Turkey, Syria and Jordan. Samira, whose passage was funded by her mother’s friend, will fly to Saudi Arabia instead.

Presenters and contributors

No presenter is identified in the subtitles. Named contributors are Samira Salimova, Kamel Al-Mammadov and his wife, Aygun. Samira’s mother and her mother’s friend also appear or are discussed, but are not named.