All in all, Hindu-Muslim unity shone across cities, with shared prayers, gifts, and gestures of goodwill, showed India’s enduring tradition of communal brotherhood and respect

Amroha and Hardoi in Uttar Pradesh also echoed these sentiments with floral greetings during Eid processions, highlighting the nation’s collective spirit of brotherhood.

These acts of kindness, from offering water to Namazi’s to sharing festive meals, shows the enduring power of unity and mutual respect, painting a vivid picture of India’s diverse yet cohesive social fabric

Jaipur, Rajasthan

On March 31, Monday, a large gathering of people in Jaipur, who had observed the month-long Roza, came together at the Eidgah and various other locations to celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr. They performed sajda and offered prayers, united in their hopes for peace and harmony. After the namaz, joyful greetings and embraces were exchanged, highlighting the spirit of togetherness.

Near the Eidgah, located along Delhi Road next to Jaipur’s walled city, Hindu residents greeted the namaz-goers by showering them with rose petals. This thoughtful gesture symbolised the deep-rooted communal harmony that Jaipur is known for, a beautiful reflection of mutual respect and solidarity.

The celebration also carried on with the traditional giving of ‘eidee,’ where young people received gifts from their elders. Many took the opportunity to explore the city, visiting restaurants and cinemas. The joy of Eid was palpable, with people of all ages coming together in celebration after the namaz.

“It feels wonderful to be here, with roses showered upon us,” said Syed Sajjad Hussan, a 60-year-old who attended namaz at Karbala. “Jaipur is known for its communal harmony. We, the Muslim community, also share similar gestures when our Hindu brothers celebrate festivals like Diwali or Holi,” he added. His words echoed the unifying spirit that defines the city, a sentiment reported by the Times of India.

As the walled city of Jaipur saw an influx of visitors, many Muslim residents took time off to explore the city’s iconic attractions, including Nahargarh Fort, Jal Mahal, Jantar Mantar, and the City Palace. Mustaq Khan, a 32-year-old from Ramganj Bazaar, shared, “Now that Roza is over, it’s time for celebration. I’ve taken four days off to visit various places in Jaipur with my family.” The festive spirit was evident as the streets came alive with young people heading out to enjoy the city’s vibrant offerings, from popular eateries to cinemas, with many catching the new release Sikander starring Salman Khan.

The mosques and dargahs in the walled city were beautifully illuminated for the occasion, their lights adding a magical touch to the celebratory atmosphere. Amid this vibrant energy, a heart-warming gesture of communal unity stood out. In several localities, Hindu families offered water to the Namazis, showing a profound display of goodwill and respect.

 

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This simple yet meaningful act of kindness highlighted the deep-rooted harmony that defines the city, where people from different communities continue to celebrate and support each other during festive occasions. Such gestures are a testament to the long-standing tradition of peaceful coexistence and mutual respect in Jaipur, fostering a sense of unity that transcends religious boundaries.

The sense of togetherness in the city during Eid-ul-Fitr was truly remarkable, as Hindu and Muslim communities came together not just in spirit but through thoughtful and respectful acts that enriched the celebrations for everyone involved.

Mumbai, Maharashtra

In a different corner of the country, in Mumbai, Eid took on a special meaning this year. As the Namazis emerged from the masjid in the bustling Chirag Nagar area of Ghatkopar after finishing their Eid prayers, they were met with an unexpected gesture of goodwill. Five Hindus, dressed in white caps, stood waiting to greet them with red roses. The surprise greeting was met with warmth and curiosity, and the congregation, moved by the gesture, invited the Hindus into the mosque.

This initiative, a beautiful example of communal harmony, was led by 64-year-old Sharad Kadam, the former Mumbai president of the Rashtriya Sewa Dal, a youth organisation founded by Congress Socialists post-Independence. Inspired by Gandhian ideals, Kadam, with the suggestion of Wardha-based Gandhian Vijay Tambe, and with the help of local Muslim activist Kalubhai, decided to wear white caps—a symbol worn by both Warkaris and Gandhians—as markers of their Hindu identity.

Joining Kadam on this special occasion were members of the Andhashraddha Nirmulan Samiti, an organisation founded by the late rationalist Narendra Dabholkar. Kadam emphasised the importance of unity, saying, “All of us from different organisations work together. The atmosphere today cannot be countered by any single group, especially not by a social one. That’s why I invited members from all opposition parties, but unfortunately, none thought it was worth their while.”

Kadam, who resides in Bhatwadi, Ghatkopar, has a deep connection to the local communities around the masjid, including Parsiwadi and Yasin Mistry Chawal, areas that had witnessed severe rioting during the 1992-93 communal clashes. Despite the difficult past, the heartfelt gesture of unity left a lasting impression.

The Muslims present at the mosque were deeply moved by the act of kindness and committed to nurturing this newly-formed bond beyond the festive occasion. “We won’t confine it to Eid; we will make it an ongoing relationship,” they assured Kadam, as reported by Hindustan Times.

While Kadam had participated in Hindu-Muslim harmony meetings in mosques in Malwani and Malad, this was the first time he had celebrated Eid in such a unique, personal way. It was a poignant reminder that the spirit of unity and peace can flourish in even the most unexpected places, and that such gestures of goodwill, when rooted in mutual respect, can help heal old wounds and build lasting connections.

“We need to build trust and friendship with each other,” said Kadam. “Otherwise, we’ll be decimated by those who say ‘Batengey toh katengey’” reported the HT.

Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh

A similar heart-warming display of unity unfolded in Prayagraj, where social organisations and members of the Hindu community came together to shower rose petals on those exiting the mosques after offering their Namas. The generous gesture saw several kilos of rose petals being used, with each Namazi greeted with a rose, symbolising goodwill and communal harmony.

According to The Free Press Journal, Raziya Sultan, who was present at the event, remarked, “Prayagraj has always been a city that promotes the Ganga-Jamuni Tehzeeb,” reflecting the deep-rooted tradition of cultural and religious coexistence in the city.

A special Ramadan Iftar party was organised by the Hindu-Muslim Unity Committee, led by Manish Agarwal, at the Indira Bhawan Compound in Civil Lines. People from all communities participated in the event with enthusiasm and broke their fast in a harmonious atmosphere. Before the Iftar, prayers for peace, tranquillity, and brotherhood were offered. During the Iftar, those fasting broke their fast with dates, fruits, and sherbet. Attendees praised the initiative, stating that such events strengthen love and unity in society.

Manish Agarwal mentioned that the aim of the Iftar party was to spread the message of goodwill and brotherhood in society, as reported by Live Hindustan.

Seelampur, Delhi

Videos from Seelampur, Delhi, recently surfaced on social media, capturing touching moments of love and unity between Hindus and Muslims during Eid. One video showed Hindus showering flowers on Muslims as they made their way to offer Namaz for Eid-Ul-Fitr. This simple yet powerful gesture of solidarity reflected a spirit of respect and togetherness. It highlighted the deep, often overlooked bonds between the communities, offering a beautiful reminder of the peaceful coexistence that thrives amidst the more divisive narratives that often dominate the headlines.

 

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Another touching incident took place during the Ramadan Jumma (Friday Prayer), when Hindus once again demonstrated their support for the Muslim community. As Muslims gathered for prayers, Hindu locals could be seen sprinkling flowers over them, in a gesture of goodwill and mutual respect. This was not an isolated incident, as Seelampur also witnessed a heart-warming display of togetherness during the celebration of Holi. During the festival, despite the cultural and religious differences, Hindu locals spread flowers over the Namazis, further reinforcing the unity shared between the communities.

 

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Indore, Madhya Pradesh

A heart-warming incident in Madhya Pradesh’s Indore has once again demonstrated the spirit of communal harmony in India. In keeping with a 50-year-old tradition, a Hindu family continued the practice of respectfully transporting the city Qazi to the main Idgah for the Eid-ul-Fitr prayers. This remarkable act of unity saw Satyanarayan Salvadia, a resident of Indore, escorting Shahar Qazi Mohammad Ishrat Ali in a horse-drawn carriage from his Rajmohalla residence to the Idgah in Sadar Bazar.

This tradition, which began with Satyanarayan’s late father, Ramchandra Salvadia, over five decades ago, has been passed down in the family as a beautiful symbol of brotherhood. Satyanarayan, who took over this responsibility after his father’s death in 2017, expressed that through this gesture, his family hopes to spread the message of unity and harmony among the people of the city, as reported by NDTV.

Indore remains the only city in the country where a Hindu family continues to honour the Qazi with such respect during the Eid celebrations, further underscoring the unique Ganga-Jamuni Tehzeeb (culture of unity and tolerance) of India. Mohammad Ishrat Ali, the Shahar Qazi, reflected on this cherished tradition, urging young people to view the world from a social perspective, beyond the divisive lens of politics.

As Eid prayers were offered in the city, some participants wore black armbands to show solidarity with Palestinians facing oppression, highlighting the global connection to the spirit of Eid. Madhya Pradesh Congress president Jeetu Patwari also visited the Idgah, extending his wishes to the Qazi, and emphasised the importance of India’s tradition of communal harmony, stating that those who preach hatred cannot be true patriots.

This annual tradition in Indore serves as a powerful reminder of how small, respectful actions can foster a sense of community and help bridge divides, promoting love and understanding across cultures and faiths.

Amroha, Uttar Pradesh

The beautiful pictures from Amroha, Uttar Pradesh, following Rajasthan, have touched many hearts. In these videos, members of the Hindu community are seen showering flowers on Muslims who are on their way to offer prayers.

राजस्थान के बाद उत्तर प्रदेश के अमरोहा से आई खूबसूरत तस्वीरें. हिंदू समुदाय के लोगों ने नमाज़ पढ़ने जा रहें मुसलमानो पर फूल बरसाकर देशभर में भाईचारे का संदेश देने का काम किया. pic.twitter.com/OyFB9QxK3y

— ♡ ارمان شيخ ♡ (@arman_shaikhh) March 31, 2025

This heart-warming gesture has become a symbol of unity and brotherhood, sending a powerful message of harmony across the country.

Hardoi, Uttar Pradesh

In Sandi town, Hardoi district, Hindus warmly showered flowers on Muslims taking part in the Eid procession, with Municipal Council President Ramji Gupta present to witness the beautiful display of solidarity. According to Dainik Bhaskar, after the prayer, members of the Muslim community generously distributed charity to the poor and needy. Outside the Eidgahs and mosques, the atmosphere resembled a vibrant fair, with both children and adults enjoying sweets, sevai (vermicelli), and toys.

As the day unfolded, people greeted one another with embraces and exchanged heartfelt Eid wishes. Prominent city figures, administrative officers, and religious leaders joined in the celebrations, collectively sending a powerful message of unity and brotherhood within the community. The event served as a reminder of the harmonious spirit that binds people together, regardless of their faith.

Related:

Everyday Harmony: A Hindu temple that serves ‘Iftar’ to Muslims during Ramzan

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A legacy of Unity: Stories of harmony across faiths and cultures

The post India’s Heartfelt Eid: where flowers & faith bridge divides appeared first on SabrangIndia.

The scene at the Wallajah Mosque in Triplicane is electrifying. Volunteers from the Sufi Dar temple located in Mylapore come to the Big Mosque every evening with the eatables for ‘Iftar’.

The volunteers, respectfully donning traditional Muslim caps, serve the fasting Muslims to break their fast. They help them with water bottles and dates to break the fast which is for 13 to 14 hours in this part of the world.

Every evening the Sufi Dar volunteers come carrying colorful buckets filled with eatables to the big mosque. They bring items like; fruit, milk, cooked rice, sweets, dates, watermelon, and packaged water.

“Each day we change the menu and give vegetable biriyani, channa rice, pulao, cauliflower rice etc,” said Harish Makkar, one of the volunteers from the Sufi Dar.  “Some 1000- 1200 Muslims gather daily at the mosque to break their fast. Volunteers or ‘sevadars’ from the Sufi Dar have been serving them faithfully for nearly four decades,” he adds.

“The Muslim brothers appreciate our activity, the sevadar (volunteer) said”, adding, “We do this as a service and with the motive that compassion knows no religion.”

“The important thing about our activity is the leftover food is distributed among the Hindu destitute who gather in large numbers every evening outside the mosque,” the volunteer explained.

As one enters the Sufi Dar, one is overwhelmed by the atmosphere of sanctity that prevails there. Pictures of several Muslim Sufi saints, Hindu saints and mystics, Jesus Christ and Mother Mary, Guru Nanak, and other Sikh gurus, religious leaders of Radhaswami and Chidakashi sects, and Sai Baba adorn the walls of Sufi Dar.

Marble statues of Lord Ganesh, Laxmi Narayan, Shiva Parvati, Radha Krishna, Lord Ram, Sita, Laxman, Hanuman, Durga Mata and Jhulelal Saint are tastefully arranged and placed there.

Every visitor, irrespective of his faith, is sure to behold his favorite deity and feel at home in Sufi Dar.

This beautiful tradition was started by Dada Ratanchand, a Hindu refugee from Sindh, who sought refuge in Chennai after the Partition of India.

Nawab Mohammad Ali Wallajah, the ancestor of Nawab Mohammad Abdul Ali, the current Prince of Arcot built the Big Mosque.

In a world often divided, this Chennai temple stands as a shining example of unity, reminding us that love, kindness, and tradition can bring communities together.

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Hindu-Muslim Unity: The other side of Kanwar Yatra

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The post Chennai: A temple that feeds the faithful during Ramzan appeared first on SabrangIndia.

Gujarat

Muslims joins Ganpati Visarjan Yatra in Tapi

In a heart-warming display of unity, Muslims joined Hindus for Ganpati Visarjan celebration in Gujrat’s Vyara City in Tapi district. Defying communal boundaries, people from both communities wore the tricolour attire, symbolizing India’s harmony. Together, they immersed Ganesh idols, exchanged greetings while chanting ‘Ganpati Bappa Morya’. This poignant gesture underscored the spirit of brotherhood and religious harmony.

Tapi, Gujarat: People from the Muslim community joined in the Ganpati Visarjan celebrations in Vyara city. People from both community wore clothing in the colors of the tricolor to demonstrate unity to showcase the Unity. pic.twitter.com/B24WSe5lLb

— IANS (@ians_india) September 14, 2024

Hindu-Muslims join hands to offer prayers to lord Ganesh in Rajkot

At Trikon Baug Ka Raja, devotees from diverse backgrounds came together to perform aarti to Lord Ganesh, showcasing the city’s timeless spirit of communal harmony. Hindus and Muslims united in prayer, reaffirming Rajkot’s legacy of unity and inclusivity.

A local Muslim while condemning the stone pelting incident in Surat added that “In India, Rajkot is known for communal unity, if it comes from other cities that stones pelted in the Ganesh Utsav, then stone pelter can’t be a Muslim because the month that is going on, is month of Prophet’s Barvi Sharif and prophet’s birth anniversary is also coming on 16^th September then no Muslim can do this work. If any Muslim has done this, then I believe that the devil woke up inside his heart and that devil did this work”

A Hindu woman said that “today we and the Muslim community performed prayers together and we should convey this message of brotherhood to everyone that the Muslim community and the Hindu Community are all equal”

Maharashtra

Mosque in Sangli hosts Ganesh idol for 44 years

In Sangli district’s Gotkhindi village, a mosque has been hosting Lord Ganesh’s idol for 44 years during the annual festival.

As reported by the Deccan Herald, members of the New Ganesh Mandal have celebrated the festival inside the mosque, highlighting the harmonious example between two communities. Ilahi Pathan, president of the mandal said that Hindu and Muslim celebrate the Ganesh festival with great zeal and devotion every year.

Another member of the mandal highlighted those festivals such as Moharram, Diwali, and Eid are also celebrated together in Gothkhindi, located 32 KM away from Sangli city in western Maharashtra.

3 friends mesmerized the beauty of Ganesh Chaturthi, celebrates Ganesh Chaturthi 

Mumbai’s Raut Galli neighbourhood in Dahisar, where three friends celebrated Ganesh Chaturthi with a unique display of interfaith unity. Three friends – Sohel Malik (Muslim), Oswald Gonsalves (Catholic), and Jignesh Patel (Hindu) – came together to set up a Ganesh idol, breaking cultural and religious barriers. Previously hindered by financial constraints, they collectively decided to host the festival this year, spreading love and harmony.

“I took care of the idol. Mr Patel took care of logistics and vargani (donations). The mandap (pandal) and decoration was all taken care of by Mr Gonsalves,” said Sohel.

Jignesh also added that “People here are together in happiness and sadness. If anything good is happening, you may see a few people showing up, but if something bad happens, everyone will turn up for you,”  as reported by NDTV.

Telangana

Hindus-Muslims dance together during Ganpati procession in Hyderabad

In a vibrant display of unity in Hyderabad, Hindus and Muslims danced together during Ganpati processions. This joyful celebration showcased the city’s harmonious spirit, reinforcing the bond between communities and underscoring India’s diversity as its greatest strength.

Karnataka

Muslim youth install Ganesh Idol in Dargah, celebrate with Hindus

In Karnataka, the village of Ugar Budrak in Kagwad taluk of Chikkodi, Belagavi celebrating the Ganesh Chaturthi as a festival of Hindu-Muslim unity. For the past six years, Hindu and Muslim youth have come together to install a Ganesh idol at the Myausbani Dargah in the village.

For six consecutive years, the Ganpati festival has become a symbol of communal harmony in Ugar Budruk, where Muslims and Hindus unite to celebrate the iconic event. Muslim youth actively participate in every aspect, from funding to idol immersion. This shared celebration has transformed the village into a beacon of interfaith unity, transcending religious differences.

A local villager explained, “In our town, we don’t just celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi as a Hindu festival. Muslims here see it as their own as well. Likewise, we Hindus celebrate Muslim festivals like Urus and Eid Milad with equal enthusiasm. There’s a sense of unity here that binds us all.”

A Muslim resident echoed this sentiment, saying, “We all celebrate each other’s festivals like brothers and sisters. Whether it’s Ganesh Chaturthi or Eid, it’s about coming together as one community.”

Friendship has no religion, harmony matters

In Karnataka’s Yadgiri district in a heart-warming demonstration of religious harmony during the occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi, Hindu-Muslim friends in Hunsagi town in Yadgiri district united to celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi.

Saddamhusena and Arun Dori, key members of the organizing group, shared that the initiate was driven by a desire to promote communal harmony.

The successful celebration of Ganesh Chaturthi by members of both communities demonstrated the enduring spirit of harmony and shared cultural values in Hunsagi. It stands as a testament to the affirmative impact in interfaith understanding of unity in diversity.

Despite the recent communal violence and stone pelting incident in Surat that highlights the need for peace and unity in our communities. However, amidst this chaos, there are heart-warming stories of Hindus and Muslims coming together to celebrate each other’s festivals, promoting interfaith unity and harmony.

Related:

Everyday Harmony: Members of Ganpati Visarjan procession pay respect to mosque

Karnataka celebrates Ganesh Chaturthi with gaiety, Muslims postpone Eid procession in Belagavi

Love & Harmony over Hate: Int’l Day to Counter Hate speech, CJP’s unique efforts

The post Ganesh Chaturthi: where unity triumphs over communal divides appeared first on SabrangIndia.

The village of Nirmal Jote in India witnessed an unexpected turn of events on the morning of Eid al-Adha. Residents, who began their day with festive preparations and prayers, soon found themselves in the midst of a rescue operation following a tragic train accident. The collision between a goods train and the Sealdah-bound Kanchenjunga Express resulted in the deaths of at least nine people and injuries to around 40 others. The villagers, led by individuals like Mohammad Momirul, swiftly shifted from celebration to action, embodying the true spirit of Eid through their selfless acts.

As reported by Indian Express, Momirul, a 32-year-old resident, had just returned from offering namaz when he heard a loud crash. Upon reaching the scene, he found the loco pilot of the goods train already dead. Without hesitation, Momirul and over 150 other villagers sprang into action. They organized impromptu rescue operations, using their own vehicles to transport the injured to nearby hospitals in the absence of immediate ambulance services. Many villagers also opened their homes to the passengers, offering them a place to rest and recover from the ordeal.

Among the rescuers was Mohammad Nazrul, who discovered six bodies and helped rescue approximately 35 people. Another resident, Taslima Khatoon, comforted an injured elderly woman who was unable to stand, ensuring she received the care she needed until her relatives arrived. The villagers’ quick response and compassionate efforts not only saved lives but also highlighted the unity and humanity that transcend religious and cultural divides.

The efforts of the Nirmal Jote villagers illustrate how, even in the face of tragedy, the core values of Eid – compassion, charity, and community – shine through. Their actions serve as a powerful reminder that during times of crisis, human solidarity can overcome adversity, bringing people together in the spirit of mutual aid and understanding.

In Pune, another inspiring story unfolded on Eid al-Adha, showcasing a different aspect of sacrifice and compassion. The Muslim Satyashodhak Mandal (MSM), an organization dedicated to promoting modern scientific approaches and democratic values within the Muslim community, launched a unique initiative encouraging Muslims to donate blood and pledge their organs and bodies for medical use after death. This initiative, supported by the Maharashtra Andhashraddha Nirmulan Samiti (MANS) and animal rights activists, marks a significant step towards fostering communal harmony and advancing a scientific outlook.

For the past 15 years, MSM has been organizing blood donation camps on Eid al-Adha, urging Muslims to donate blood instead of sacrificing animals. This year, they expanded their efforts by encouraging participants to sign resolutions for organ and body donation. The response was overwhelming: 34 people donated blood, and around 30 individuals pledged to donate their organs and bodies.

As reported by Indian express, Professor Shamshuddin Tamboli, president of MSM, emphasized that the true meaning of “Qurbani” (sacrifice) lies in contributing to society. By promoting blood and organ donation, MSM aims to save lives and foster a spirit of humanity and communal harmony. Altaphusen Ramjan Nabab, a mechanical engineer and MSM office bearer, highlighted the importance of this initiative, noting that Islam allows for such life-saving acts and that this effort can help dispel misconceptions about Muslims.

The initiative also saw participation from individuals with personal stories of resilience and advocacy. Shrirupa Bagwan, a dedicated MSM member, expressed her joy in donating blood and pledging her body for donation. Nisar Sikandar Bagwan, a father whose daughter faced a triple talaq at a young age, has been a consistent blood donor at MSM’s Eid al-Adha programs for the past eight years. His daughter’s journey from a victim of triple talaq to a law graduate, supported by MSM, underscores the transformative impact of such initiatives on individual lives and the broader community.

The efforts of MSM and the participation of individuals like Nabab, Shrirupa, and Nisar highlight a profound commitment to social reform and communal harmony. By choosing to celebrate Eid al-Adha through acts of donation and sacrifice for the greater good, they are setting a powerful example of how traditional religious practices can evolve to address contemporary societal needs.

These stories are reminders of the potential for religious festivals to serve as platforms for positive change. Eid al-Adha, with its emphasis on sacrifice and charity, provides an ideal opportunity for communities to come together, transcend differences, and work towards common goals. Whether through immediate crisis response or long-term social initiatives, the essence of Eid lies in fostering a sense of shared humanity and mutual support.

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The post Eid al-Adha in India: from train rescue to organ donation, the community showcases compassion and generosity appeared first on SabrangIndia.

Mohammed Raja, a local resident, shared with the New Indian Express that around 10 Hindu residents had told the Muslims about their need for a temple and had requested land in the area.

The temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha was inaugurated with a feast at Ottapalayam near Padiyur, Kangayam, in Tiruppur district on May 26, 2024. The temple today stands on three cents of land generously donated by the local Muslim Jamaath. The construction of the temple was funded by Rs 10 lakh which was collected through donations from locals as well as the panchayat president.

The two communities have reportedly lived together in harmony for years, and this incident of generous donation adds to the comfort and trust between the two communities. This relation reflected further in the celebration of the temple inauguration where members of the Muslim community, including children, arrived and brought with them a traditional ‘seervarisai’ offering, consisting of fruits, flowers, and other items arranged on plates. During the inauguration ceremony, Muslim residents contributed Rs 30,000 for the ‘annadanam’ which is the community feast.

Members of both communities can be seen greeting and garlanding each other.

தமிழ்நாடு

In Tiruppur’s Ootappalayam village, Muslims have donated 3 cents of land to the Hindu community to build a Ganesha temple as the village lacked one.

Muslims and Hindus together participated in the Kudamulukku function of the newly built temple pic.twitter.com/GDFdgHnDC5

— Dharani Balasubramaniam (@dharannniii) May 26, 2024

The area, Rose Garden, is a predominantly Muslim neighbourhood, but has a small share of Hindu families living there as well, as per The Hindu.

Similarly, in February 2024, the Tamil Nadu State Committee of All-India Muslim Centre had facilitated the wedding ceremonies of numerous couples in the state. The weddings took place according to the individual’s respective customs. The organiser’s parent party is the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML)

According to the New Indian Express, 23 couples got married with their parents’ consent. Uut of this diverse mix of couples, six were Hindu, three were Christian and fourteen were Muslim.

The organisation gifted every couple 10 grams of gold along with items to set up their new life including furniture, groceries, and utensils worth Rs 2 lakh. The event was attended by 2000 guests with non-vegetarian and vegetarian food items.

In January 2024, similarly the state’s chief minister and DMK President MK Stalin had recently slammed the right-wing and said that January 30th should be celebrated as a day for religious harmony on the death anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. He argued that even after 75 years of independent communal harmony was yet to be achieved.

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Communal harmony, Mumbai style 

The post Tamil Nadu sets example of communal harmony amidst a polarised country appeared first on SabrangIndia.

And on March 31, scores of people, irrespective of their caste and religion, took up the invitation and visited the mosque as a gesture of goodwill and togetherness. The guest list included local Sarvajanik Ganesh Utsav and Navratri Utsav mandals officials, as well as Gujaratis, Jains, Marwaris, Christians, and Maharashtrians.

As per the report, the guests were personally greeted and welcomed by the revered clerics of the mosque by offering them traditional shawls. After that, the people were provided with a tour of the mosque and given a breakdown of the customs and rituals that are observed during the holy month, such as iftar (breaking of the fast), salat (five times a day), and roza (fasting).

“Humanity is the biggest religion,” the clerics of the mosque declared, emphasizing that all people are children of One God and that different religions observe different holy days for different purposes, such as Lent for Christians, Navratri for Hindus, and Ramadan for Muslims. As per the clerics, these religious rituals across religions are meant to promote spiritual purification and self-discipline.

Remarkably, the Jama Masjid Al Shams was the first place of worship in the state to lead by example by lowering the volume of sound to levels that were appropriate for Azaan.
The mosque has installed special sound systems with built-in software that is designed and programmed to ensure that the sound does not exceed the permissible decibel limit both inside and outside the mosque premises in order to voluntarily comply with the Supreme Court’s guidelines regarding permissible sound levels as per the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules.

It is essential to note that this message of harmony and brotherhood sent by Jama Masjid Al Shams, Mira Road will set the narrative right. In the month of January and February Mira Road and Naya Nagar had grabbed the headlines of mainstream media as episodes of communal violence and hate speeches by majoritarian leads had taken place in the area. Even after attempts were made by many, especially BJP MLA Raja Singh, BJP MLA Nitesh Rane and BJP MLA Geeta Jain, to give rise to communal tensions in the area, the communities have now come together to promote the message of brotherhood.

It is essential to note that on March 27, an FIR had been registered against Telangana BJP leader T Raja Singh for allegedly hurting the religious sentiments of communities with his hate speech during a rally on Mira Road on February 25, said MIRA Bhayandar Vasai Virar (MBVV) police. The BJP leader was booked under sections 153(A), 188 and 295(A) of the Indian Penal Code which deals with dividing communities by hurting their religious sentiments. The residents of Mira Road had also submitted a written complaint to the senior PI of the Naya Nagar Police Station, Vilas Supe in Mira Road demanding registration of a First Information Report (FIR), thorough and fair investigation and prompt legal action against BJP MLAs Geeta Jain and Nitesh Rane. The residents had accused both of them to be responsible for unnecessarily stoking communal fires over the Ram Temple event at Ayodhya on January 22, 2024.

Notably, a petition had also been moved in the Bombay High Court to seek action against three Bharatiya Janata Party leaders for delivering hate speeches and inciting violence. Details of the same can be read here.

Details of the hate speeches delivered and the communal violence can be read here.

Related:

Sufidar Trust, Walajah Big Mosque: The 4 decades long tradition of Hindus serving Iftar meals to Muslims during Ramzan

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The famous Sri Chammundeswari Temple, which is visited by many devotees from all over India, which recently saw a visit by Congress politician Rahul Gandhi’s part of the Bharat Jodo Yatra, is set next to the Parayil Mosque. It was undergoing renovations after an idol reinstallation ceremony held last February. However, the temple committee began to deliberate how to display the name of the temple when they discovered that they had encountered a logistical challenge – a lack of space to put up a board.

It was at this point that the Parayil Masjid located nearby proposed that the temple can add their name to its own board placed nearby. The mosque  offered to share a portion of its entrance board, and the temple board accepted.

Today, the arch outside the mosque showcases both the names of the Parayil Moasjid as well as the Sri Chammundeswari Temple, Melekuttimoodu, according to a report by South First.

The secretary of the Parayil Masjid Mahal committee  Rasheed Chullimanoor told South First,  “We came to know about their difficulty. We discussed it and approached them with our idea. They happily accepted it. We are also happy that we could help our brothers. In a seemingly polarised world, if this unassuming archway offers a powerful message of unity and hope, we are delighted. If it resonates with the new generation, we are indebted to God.”

The announcement came after the Mahal committee decided to include the name, following which formal requests were exchanged in the second week of March.

When asked about the significance of this development, the president of the temple committee stated that it was an ordinary gesture that the current times had turned into something extraordinary, “These are times when some vested minds attempt to destroy the social fabric as they try to divide society on religious lines. We hope that this arch will act as a beacon of hope and harmony.”

Similarly, Punjab witnessed a heartening instance of communal harmony between Muslims and Sikhs. The now viral video from Malerkotla in Punjab captured a unique moment where a Sikh gurudwara offered its prayer space for namaz as a gesture of communal harmony. In the video, prayers and readings, the Path and Namaz, can be seen conducted simultaneously within the main hall of the Baba Gursevak Singh Gurudwara as thee holy month of Ramadan continues this March.

According to a report by the Times of India, this was an organised event held at the Gurudwara Baba Gursevak Singh and saw residents of the village come together to collectively participate in the event by engaging in prayers and readings across faiths.

Furthermore, showing a deep resolve to reduce religion based animosity, the Azaan (call to prayer) was also recited within the main hall, called the Darbar Sahib, of the Gurudwara Sahib, and there onwards was followed by the offering of Namaz by the Muslim community. Later, members of the Muslim community hosted an Iftar gathering in the Langar Hall of the Gurudwara, breaking their fast together with their Sikh and Hindu brethren. The event was hosted in a village which has a majority of Sikh families but also hosts a few Muslim families, a fact which makes the gesture even more significant and heart-warming. According to TOI, Dr Naseer, of the Sikh Muslim Sanjhan, said the community is very touched by the gesture by the villagers, ‘especially the Sikh brothers’ for having organised the iftar event.

One of the organisers, Jagtar Singh Guru, said that Punjab is a land of diversity as it hosted pirs and gurus, and  now is an example of communal harmony to the world.

Times of India similarly reported that not a few miles from Malerkotla, a similar iftar event had been organised by Sri Ram Mandir Committee on March 25.

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The Shahi Imam stated, as per the report, “There is a gurdwara for Ravidas community already in the village and a new prayer hall is to be added. The gurdwara management committee thus invited me, preachers from Ravidas community, Nihang Singhs and even district health officer of Hoshiarpur for this foundation laying ceremony. So all of us laid the foundation stone one by one thus spreading the message of peace, communal harmony and brotherhood.”

West Bengal

After a Hindu man, Shyamapada Mondal, died, the Muslim residents of the village located in the Kothirampur area of West Bengal’s Mushidabad, came together to cremate the body of an elderly man. The man had passed away from a heart attack one morning. After his demise, his Muslim neighbours pitched in to help the family with the cremation process, according to The Observer Post.

Faced with the challenge of arranging a proper cremation amidst financial constraints and without relatives in the vicinity, the Muslim’s residents’ support to Mondal’s family was reportedly a source of comfort. To take charge of the funeral arrangements, rallying together to collect donations for the purpose. They organised the cremation ceremony, gathered funds and ensured the process was conducted with dignity and respect. Some of the names of those who made this happen were Aram Khan, Anirul Sheikh, Sakir Ali, and Kalam Sheikh, among several others. They tirelessly gathered contributions, and even made a makeshift funeral plank from bamboo to carry the Mondal’s body to the cremation ground.

Rebati Mondal, Mondal’s daughter, even expressed her thanks for the selfless support received from the Muslim community during their time of need. According to the report, she said, “I was worried about the cost of cremation. In this situation, the Muslims of the village came forward, taking care of all the responsibilities. Aram, Sakir, and Anirul went from house to house in the area, collecting donations. The Muslims in the village always support us and stand beside us. They come forward in times of danger. Without them, my father’s funeral would not have been complete today.”

Moreover, the Muslim community has also taken up the responsibilities to organise the upcoming Shradh ceremony for the family.

Lakshadweep

A heart-warming display of communal unity was made at the Hindu temple in Kavaratti, which is the capital of Lakshadweep. The temple serves as the only Hindu place of worship in the island. This year the temple was adorned with a beautifully crafted idol of Lord Vinayaka sculpted by a Muslim ex-serviceman, PR Cheriya Koya, according to a report in the Deccan Herald.

The temple priest expressed his gratitude for Koya’s contribution and said that the statue of Ganesh was very special.

Koya is a former art teacher and military veteran. He received a certificate in response to his donating the statue to the temple at Kavaratti by local authorities. However, as per the report, this isn’t the first instance of Koya making art to promote interfaith communal harmony. Previously too he crafted a statue of Lord Hanuman for a temple in his hometown of Androth.

Sivaganga, Tamil Nadu

Similarly, Tamil Nadu too witnessed a heartening display of communal harmony during the inauguration of Masjid e Elahi-Masjid in the Sivagangai district of the state. The inauguration saw a gathering of people from all religious communities in the area. The event was a vibrant colourful event which saw widespread participation and offered refreshments like cold brinks and biryani. There were welcoming banners adorning the main streets and bus stand, that invited people of all faiths to come join on the auspicious occasion, as per a report by the BBC Hindi.

In #TamilNadu‘s #Sivaganga, when a new mosque was inaugurated, people from all communities were invited to open the mosque. All of them visited the mosque. pic.twitter.com/Uclp9DCGGU

— Hate Detector (@HateDetectors) January 28, 2024

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In a heartening display of unity and compassion, the city of Mumbai witnessed an extraordinary bond between two families from different faiths, transcending religious boundaries for a life-saving cause. A year ago, Rafiq Shah from Kalyan met Dr. Rahul Yadav, an Ayurveda practitioner from Ghatkopar, in the dialysis clinic of KEM Hospital in Parel. However little did they know that this encounter would lead to a remarkable exchange of kidneys, bridging the gap of blood group mismatches and exemplifying the spirit of communal harmony? On December 15 last year, the corridors of KEM Hospital saw Girija, the mother of Dr. Rahul Yadav, selflessly donating her kidney to Rafiq Shah, while Shah’s wife, Khushnuma, reciprocated by donating her kidney to Yadav. These interfaith kidney swap transplants, though rare, have graced the medical world on a handful of occasions, as acknowledged by Dr. Tukaram Jamale, the head of KEM’s nephrology department.

Swap transplants have often been the beacon of hope in such situations. The nephrology department at KEM Hospital reportedly played a pivotal role in identifying the compatibility between Shah and Yadav. Khushnuma, at 38 years old, had harboured the wish to be a donor ever since her husband Rafik Shah, employed with a civil contractor in Kalyan, was diagnosed with kidney failure two years ago. However, the road to donation was hindered by their blood group mismatch – she is A+, while he has B+ blood group.

Tamil Nadu

Amidst the aftermath of severe floods wreaking havoc in south Tamil Nadu, a moving tale of compassion and religious harmony has emerged at the Seydunganallur Baithulmal Jamath mosque. According to The NewsMinute, who discovered the story, there is a mosque positioned on the route from Tirunelveli to Thoothukudi, this mosque has opened its doors to provide shelter to around 30 Hindu families grappling with the devastating impact of the floods. Over the past four days, these displaced families have found safety and shelter within the mosque’s walls. Furthermore, even after this offering refuge, the mosque committee h took further steps to make the stay for the families comfortable and safe by ensuring the provision of essential needs such as food, clothing, medicines, and sanitary napkins for their distressed guests.

Kopal, Karnataka

Viral on social media in Karnataka are heart-warming images and videos capturing a Muslim family’s generous act of hosting an ‘anna santarpana’ for Sabarimala pilgrims, Main Media reported.. Khashim Ali Muddaballi who is the district president of the Pinjara community, had opened his home in Jayanagar, Koppal city, in north Karnataka for this special program.

The pilgrims, who are mostly Hindus, not only received hospitality in the form of food but also engaged in devotional activities. They engaged in devotional activities such as singing bhajans and performed worship rituals at Khashim’s residence. Among the attendees were also numerous ‘maldharis’ (devotees) who undertake vows to visit Sabarimala.

Talking about what made him do it, Khashim talked about the unity of all people from all religions.

These heart-warming displays of communal harmony stand out in a society often marred by divisions that are highly politicised. It serves as a powerful testament to the shared values that bind people together that survive despite political polarisation.

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Organised with Lok Sabha elections in mind, Jana Gana Mana Abhiyan is rooted in the conviction that the present plan of organized communal frenzy must not be allowed to overshadow our civilizational heritage of co-living and the constitutional design of India’s democratic, secular republic. The Abhiyan believes that an overwhelming silent majority of Indians desire peaceful and harmonious co-living but in the present climate they are denied an opportunity to express their convictions. Hence, in this critical year for our nation’s destiny, this campaign attempts to connect all such citizens so that the public sphere is reclaimed.

The campaign is from 3rd to 30th January 2024. It includes events and activities to celebrate a) iconic founders like Swami Vivekanand, Savitribai Phule, ,Babasaheb Ambedkar, Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan, Mahatma Gandhi, b) festivals that are celebrated across communities like Lohri and Sankranti and c) events that recall our common struggles for equality, fraternity  liberty and justice for all.

The activities planned for the campaign include videos, posters, challenges, on-line and face-to-face local events which will help revive discussions around the ideals of the community we had imagined and re-kindle aspirations towards realizing our cherished values.

Overwhelming silent majority desires peaceful and harmonious co-living but in the present climate they are denied the opportunity

The entire campaign has a national missed call number of 7877722353 in addition to state level and local numbers that like-minded citizens can dial to join the movement.

“The country is witnessing a frenzy of organized communalism which has got nothing to do with maryaada or aastha or dharma but is a brazen attempt to polarize voters on religious lines in the run up to the critical 2024 national elections. At this fork-on-the-road, civil society, represented by Bharat Jodo Abhiyan (BJA) would like to remind Indian citizens and society of the nation’s strengths and assets: its immortal founders, incomparable heritage, diverse peoples and their varied cultures. We invite all like-minded citizens who take pride in our progressive, inclusive civilization and are committed to our constitutional values of fraternity, liberty, equality and justice to give us a missed call on 7877722353. We invite them to become co-travellers in this mission of unity and progress, for a healthy – inclusive, truth-seeking, forward-looking, and compassionate – society. We call upon them to join this vital mission to reclaim the republic”, said BJA in a press release.

Among those who are leading the campaign are Yogendra Yadav and Vijay Mahajan, convenors of the Bharat Jodo Abhiyan, Kavitha Kuruganti, national secretary, and Kamayani Swami, national working group member.

Courtesy: https://www.counterview.net

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