How the effort spread internationally, described from the historical record rather than from estimates.
The origin and continuing heartland. The Nizamuddin centre in Delhi, Raiwind in Pakistan and Kakrail in Bangladesh are the historically central bases, and the annual gatherings at Raiwind and Tongi (Bishwa Ijtema) are among the largest Muslim assemblies anywhere.
Activity grew with post-war migration from South Asia, with mosque-based programmes from the 1960s and 1970s and a large regional centre established in Dewsbury in the late 1970s. Most participation is local, part-time and mosque-based.
Groups established a presence in France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Spain and Italy, largely through North African, Turkish and South Asian communities. Patterns differ markedly by country and by local mosque governance.
South Africa has a long-established presence dating from the mid-twentieth century, with networks also in East Africa (Kenya, Tanzania), West Africa (Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal) and North Africa.
Presence varies substantially by country. Some states permit mosque-based activity, others restrict or prohibit organised activity entirely. Anyone travelling should check the law of the destination country.
Groups reached the United States and Canada from the 1950s onwards, developing around immigrant communities and, later, university towns. Activity is decentralised and mosque-based.
Well established in Malaysia and Indonesia, with significant activity also in Thailand and the Philippines. Local practice is shaped strongly by regional custom and national religious authorities.
A smaller but long-standing presence centred on major cities and their mosques, largely within diaspora communities.
Chronological timeline from Mewat and 1926 through international development to the present.
History in Britain, local mosque networks and how programmes generally work.
What an Ijtema is, its purpose and typical activities.
Educational biographies of historically significant scholars.
