This week marks the annual period of the Hajj, one of the most important pillars of the Islamic religion. Each year millions of Muslims travel to the ancient city of Mecca, Saudi Arabia to fulfill their sacred obligation. The pilgrimage is comprised of several rites, including the ritual stoning of Shaitan, circling the sacred Kaaba and kissing the Black Stone.

Vice Magazine founder Surooh Alvi accompanied his parents on the Hajj and surreptitiously recorded The Mecca Diaries, with a smuggled-in minicam. The extraordinary 14-minute documentary is an eye-opening experience for non-Muslims.

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• Muslims begin hajj rites (moroccotomorrow.org)
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• Muslims Start Annual Hajj Pilgrimage Near Mecca (npr.org)