On Sunday 14th August 2016, Minhaj Women League UK Bradford played host to the Annual Durood Sharif gathering and this year’s Independence Day celebrations were combined.

The Mehfil began with the blessed recitation of the Holy Quran before shortly engaging the audience in sending Durood upon the Beloved Prophet (SAW). The first segment of the gathering consisted of praising the Beloved (SAW) with various members of the audience coming forth to recite their praises.

To begin the second segment of the day's event, Sister Jannat Elahi (MWL Bradford General Secretary) was invited to stage to inform the audience of the purpose behind the Halaqa Durood project launched by Shaykh-ul-Islam Dr Muhammad Tahir-ul-Qadri. She explained the significance of sending Durood and Salaam upon the Prophet (SAW) by use of reference from Surah Ahzab, verse 56. Before concluding her speech, Sister Jannat explained to the audience the guidelines set by Shaykh-ul-Islam Dr Muhammad Tahir-ul-Qadri, and how they should be adhered to correctly.

Shortly after, Sister Rubina Raja (MWL Bradford President) spoke to the audience briefly about loving for the sake of Allah (SWT). She explained the link between love for one’s own land and faith. She explained how both aspects go hand in hand as part of ones faith as we are all one nation, one Ummah.

Before concluding the event, the students of Minhaj-ul-Quran Bradford were invited to the stage to recite the Tarana 'Dil Dil Pakistan'. The students had the audience singing with them and feeling happy about their ties with their country.

A brief talk was given about Bradford's Madinat Al-Zahra project, encouraging the audience to participate in this great project. Then attendees were informed of Minhaj Welfare Foundation's Qurbani Project and encouraged to donate towards MWF. Following this, three prizes (Irfan ul Quran Urdu) were awarded to the localities/people with the most Durood Sharif for this past year.

Lastly, collective Zikr and Salaam was read, and collective Dua was made for the Ummah. To conclude, the students were called forward to cut the cake in celebration of Pakistan Independence Day.