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 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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Sabrang India tracks down incidents of harmony that have been recorded across India even as hate campaigns trailing electoral victories flourish across the length and breadth of the nation. These stories, ordinary, imbued with compassion and empathy provide a glimpse into not just the pluralist tradition but historical significance of India as a land that encompasses and nurtures multiplicity of traditions and faiths. Furthermore, these incidents don’t just serve as stories of inspiration and unrivalled compassion but as also efficient models to follow on the route to establishing constitutional values.

Gonda, Uttar Pradesh

A heart-warming and unique tradition has emerged in 2022 from the Gonda district of Uttar Pradesh where children, adults and everyone are participating in a community initiative that seeks to unite people across community lines. This initiative revolves around the establishment of a Roti Bank within a cow shelter in a small village, the Roti Bank has not only brought the community closer but also added a touch of compassion and unity to the lives of its residents. The brainchild behind this initiative is Mansur Ali, who is the Pradhan of the village, who took the step with unwavering support from the Gonda Sadar Tehsildar, Rajiv Mohan Saxena. Together, they seem to have ignited a spirit of compassion, empathy and fraternity transcending faith that they have initiated particularly through the children.

The Roti Bank, situated in Rudragarh Nausi village of Gonda Sadar, operates on a simple idea where members of the Roti Bank team collect Roti, a traditional Indian bread, from households every day, which is then lovingly served to the cows residing in the village’s cow shelter. This initiative was hailed as a remarkable example of communal harmony and care for the bovine residents of the village.

Well, what of the reactions of the villagers? One would presume, in this environment of enforced hatred, that the villagers would be opposed to this initiative by a Muslim leader? However, expectations go contrary to reality, for the residents of the village have wholeheartedly embraced this cause and are considering it an act of reverence and kindness. The Roti Bank team, including the Tehsildar, Rajiv Mohan Saxena, aim to expand this heart-warming initiative to other cow shelters within their jurisdiction.

What seems to be the case is that the Tehsildar in this instance seems to recognise the potent necessity and relevance of such a unifying and harmonious activity for the villagers. For, in the words of the Tehsildar, this endeavour was inspired by the age-old practice of mothers making Roti for cows, which is a gesture of deep respect for these gentle animals. By encouraging the village Pradhan to pursue this vision, the village of Rudragarh Nausi has set a shining example of collective responsibility towards their four-legged companions.

There are a total of 22 cow shelters within their jurisdiction, and they intend to replicate this beautiful tradition in more of them. The current cow shelter in Rudragarh Nausi is home to approximately 400 cows, and even with existing provisions for food and water, the addition of Roti to their diet is a testament to the villagers’ care and concern for these animals. As the Roti Bank concept gains acceptance and success, it has the potential to bring about a wave of community engagement across Gonda district and beyond.

Hamirpur, Uttar Pradesh

In another display of communal harmony, a heart-warming story emerged from 2019 in the Maudaha area of Hamirpur in Himachal Pradesh, where a group of dedicated Muslim youth embarked on a mission to rescue a cow named Anna, according to Amar Ujala. The cow had found herself in a terrible situation after falling into a drain along the main road. These young men successfully rescued Anna. These youth did the task of saving the cow fear of cow vigilantes attacking Muslims.

Furthermore, not content with just the rescue, these young individuals went above and beyond to ensure the well-being of the cow. The animal was in a weakened and malnourished state, recognising this they promptly sought medical assistance for it and called a veterinarian from the local animal hospital to provide treatment. There onwards, they diligently cared for Anna, feeding her twice a day and making sure she had access to water. What is even astounding is that they didn’t stop just at rescue and medical attention. The young men united and submitted a memorandum to the local Tehsildar with a heartfelt request for Anna to be relocated to a cow shelter where she could receive the proper treatment and care she deserved.

The incident began when Anna, the cow, fell into the drain on the main road in Husainganj, a local neighbourhood. The rescue operation was executed by Mohammad Danish, Jumman, Ahmed, Bhura, Mejar, Gulam Mohammad, Imran, Ajmat Guru, Inayat Khan, and Muin, who collectively formed the guardian angels for Anna. Mohammad Danish, in particular, took it upon himself to provide continuous care for the ailing cow, highlighting the seriousness of her condition.

After their tireless efforts and devotion to Anna’s well-being, the local police were informed of the cows no immediate action was taken. Frustrated but undeterred, the cow’s caregivers took the initiative to call the animal hospital for help. Pharmacists Rajesh Pal and Hemant Panchal were swift in responding to the distress call, providing medical attention to Anna twice.

Rajesh Pal, the pharmacist, shed light on Anna’s medical condition, revealing that the cow suffered from weak eyesight and a skin disease, both of which were diligently addressed through their treatments. The injuries she sustained from the fall into the drain only added to her suffering.

The heartening gesture of unity extended to local cow shelters as well, as Ramkaran Gupta, who operates the Patanjali Gaushala on the national highway, expressed his willingness to provide care for Anna and stated that they were more than willing to keep her and provide the necessary treatment at their gaushala.

In response to this incident, Tehsildar Ramanuj Shukla acknowledged the involvement of the Husainganj community members and leaders from the Aam Aadmi Party, who had taken the initiative to file a complaint regarding Anna’s condition.

Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh

Following the demise of hundreds of cows, the government has handed over the management of the gaushala in Bairsia, Bhopal, to the district panchayat. To facilitate this, a substantial quantity of fodder was required, not only for the affected gaushala but also for other gaushala in Bairsia facing similar challenges. This was a huge problem – however, it was only with the intervention of community members, many of whom were Muslims, that this problem was solved, according to Punjab Kesari.

Addressing the fodder shortage issue, the SDM Aditya Jain, along with Tehsildar Alok Pare and district CEO Dilip Jain, convened a meeting with fodder traders in Lalaria village on Tuesday and during the meeting, the SDM highlighted the pressing need for fodder in sustaining the gaushala. In a commendable display of unity, all fodder traders unanimously pledged to contribute 800 quintals of fodder, with distribution scheduled to commence on Wednesday. It was a diverse group of contributors, which included many members of the Muslim community, some of whose names are as follows – Bablu Bhai, Bhura Bhai, Lalla Bhai, Khalil Bhai, Irshad Bhai, Ikka Seth, Arif Bhai, Anis Bhai, Hanif Bhai, Jamna Prasad, Pappu Bhai Janpad, Abarar Bhai, and Jabir Khan.

Lalaria village, situated in Bhopal district, plays a pivotal role in the national fodder trade, boasting the highest number of trucks dedicated to this purpose. It’s worth mentioning that the majority of fodder traders in Lalaria belong to the Muslim community, according to the report. Thus, through this community based effort we can see how collective initiative and coming together in solidarity during times of crisis with actionable objectives can have the possibility to transcend religious boundaries.

These inspiring act of kindness takes on a deeper significance when considering the broader context of India’s national discourse. In a country where cow-related issues often become a fiery topic of political debate and violence, these people actively chose unity and compassion over division.

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For the past months, the western state of Rajasthan has been peppered with fuelled hate, inciting prejudice against Muslims, the game plan being to polarise voting-behaviour as the assembly elections approach. Rajasthan goes to polls on November 23. The socio-political moves from ultra, right-wing organisations like VHP, RSS and Bajrang Dal and their mushrooming affiliates have considerably grown in the past few months. The opposition either remains silent or feebly attempts to bust the manipulated hate. It is therefore important to take note of the existing reality, the everyday, heart-warming instances of lived positives that are the natural foil to both fake news and hate-speech. We must also question why psychologists suggest to stay away from the toxic news-shows and why independent journalists like Ravish Kumar recommend that the rational citizens should not consume the godi-media news or irrational information from news hour anchors? These everyday stories of hope are a frequent reminder of our treasured Ganga-Jamuni heritage.

The pink city of Jaipur, the light flickers of the Jodhpur, the vibrant folk art, colourful embroidery, the legacy of classic music and dance have been fascinating people from different places and communities for decades. Travellers imbibe these sparks of stars to strengthen their footsteps and invoke the path ahead. CJP has a regular monitor in its Nafrat ka Naqsha. While we log in data of peppered hate —during April, 2023 CJP has taken note of the spiteful Trishul distribution events in Rajasthan, where the speakers provoked the Hindu mob against the minority via manufactured narratives and impelled them for violence—we need to also constantly record the welcome reprieve from everyday harmony. These instances are also important means to counter the injustices caused by hate and exclusion.

Over just a few short weeks, Rajasthan has also witnessed tales of courage and syncretic sagacity which can fortify the foothold of our everyday religious harmony.

Barmer

Rajasthan consists of a considerably low ratio of Muslim population and most of the districts are dominated by the Hindu community. Several times, orthodox norms, misogyny, communalism and casteism have spilt and resulted in the brutal incidents of discrimination, still wise and grounded people have not left believing in the ethos of accord. In the Barmer district of Rajasthan, many villages have celebrated the pious month of Ramzan. Gohad ka tala, Aarbi ki Gafan, Saroope ka tala and Navatala villages own the legacy of partition when a throng of citizens from Pakistan came and got shelter in adjoining districts. Some villagers are even followers of Peer-Pithora who has an enormous fan-following in Sindh, Pakistan.

A report in LiveHindustan tells us they have been following the Islamic rituals during the month of Ramzan for decades. The cultural similarity and parallel values fix them through the yarn of affection where no communal barriers exist to differentiate and boost the trenches. They wake up at Sehri (the early morning ritual), keep Roza (fast), do Iftar (break the fast) and offer Namaz with a noteworthy bravura. Sharing food and prayers on the same ‘Dastarkwan’ ( place food mat) while several streets are swelling up with the clatter and chaos of hateful slogans is beautiful enough to melt down the mountains of prejudices.

Jaipur  

In the similar way, Jaipur, particularly known for its historical- cultural significance has also witnessed a similar instance where citizens have crossed the walls of religion and division of faith.

As reported by The New Indian Express, Rajendra Bagadi from the pink city was suffering from cancer and unfortunately, he lost his life during the brutal Covid-19 pandemic. However, the local Muslims came to the forefront and took the responsibility of rituals while Rajendra’s wife and children accompanied them. Showing a true spirit of fraternity and humanitarian principle, they supported the family during such a fragile time.  At the time, the video of Muslims performing the last rites of this Hindu man also went viral on the social-media portals where netizens hailed this story via powerful comments and appreciation.

Karauli

The recently released Bollywood fiction movie, ‘Afwah’ sheds some light on the element of fake news and hate speech in the city of Rajasthan. But what do people do when a hate-incident takes place or when rumours flutter to rouse ferocity? Most of the time, the herd has no time (nor inclination) to fact-check or scrutinise the veracity of the information being peddled, but they do spend time and energy to spread the poison.

Madhulika Rajput, a middle-aged lady who runs a shop in the town was not among them. She gave shelter to the Muslim men when a ferocious Hindu mob was chasing them. The violent crowd was also repeating the catchphrase of ‘Jai Shri ram’ but she took a sane step by saving the Muslim men inside the complex. While expressing her perplexities regarding the mishap she said – ‘They asked if anyone was hiding, but I said no one was here. I did not want the riot to spread further.’

Around 35 people got wounded during the bout but her wisdom has set an example against growing communalism. It’s also a powerful response to those chauvinists who underestimate the bravery of their women among conflict.

The word ‘Rajasthan’ translates into ‘the land of kings’. Now it depends on us whether we want to nurture the kings of hate, autocracy and oppression or we choose ordinary people who display, every day, a deep understanding of humanity while saving the crux of democracy.

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As per a report in the Indian Express following communal clashes on August 1 in Nuh, Gurgaon, and other parts of Haryana, the Shahi Masjid in Sohna was vandalised by a mob comprising 70-100 men. Fortunately, the mosque’s Imam, his family, and a group of 10-12 children studying at the madrasa inside managed to escape unharmed. This was made possible by the timely intervention of members of the Sikh community, who conducted a rescue operation amidst the ongoing clashes, according to local witnesses.

The mosque, not only serves as a place of worship but also houses rooms for a few families and classrooms for children.

During the turmoil, the Imam, along with 30 others, including children, sought refuge in the residential quarters within the mosque premises. With the situation becoming increasingly dire, the Imam instructed his brother to escort the women and children to safety behind the mosque. However, the situation took a positive turn when the locals stepped in to help, arriving just in time to assist the vulnerable group.

As per the Indian Express report, one of the locals who played a crucial role in the rescue was Guddu Singh (25), a student from Palwal. Responding to panic calls from residents near the Sohna mosque, Guddu and his fellow locals decided to take action despite the limited presence of only 10-12 policemen against a gathering of hundreds outside the mosque. As the mob continued to wreak havoc inside the mosque, the brave locals turned their attention to the adjacent residential quarters. Their first priority was rescuing the women and children, successfully ensuring their safety.

The #Hindutva mob also attacked the #Sohna Jama Masjid. After the #Hindu mob ran away, many members of the #Sikh community came to help. They arranged buses for the women and children to leave the place. pic.twitter.com/KIKOI5MgfO

— Hate Detector (@HateDetectors) August 1, 2023

This incident highlights the importance of unity and solidarity in times of crisis, as members of the Sikh community risked their safety to protect their fellow citizens from harm.

An FIR has been registered against unknown persons, reported the Indian Express.

On the morning of August 1, a mosque in Gurgaon’s Sector 57 was also targeted in a violent attack. A large armed mob fired upon and set the mosque on fire around 12:30 am. The chief imam, who was not present at the time, had gone to his village. However, the deputy imam, a 19-year-old, who led prayers in his absence, was brutally assaulted. He suffered 13 sword wounds and had his throat slit, resulting in his death. Another individual on the premises was severely beaten and shot in the knee and is currently in an ICU.

The incidents have already claimed six precious lives and caused a staggering economic loss. The scars of bigotry inflicted are far from easily forgotten.

These stories of everyday love and harmony are not isolated incidents. The Sikh community has had a history of coming to the aid of people in need. Feeding the poor is synonymous with the Sikh Community. However it doesn’t just stop there. In February this year amidst hate-crimes and religious intolerance filling up our timelines a heartwarming video from Indore shows a Muslim woman offering Namaz in a Gurudwara, highlighting co-existence and acceptance in our diverse country. During the anti-CAA protests in Shaheen Bagh, Sikhs and Muslims prepared langar together. There were videos of Sikh and Muslim men exchanging their headdresses and clicking selfies together. Even after the 2019 Pulwama attack the Sikh community from Punjab stepped in and rescued and sheltered many Kashmiri students there who started receiving threats after the attack. These stories of brotherhood and love for fellow countryman restores our faith in humanity.

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Jaunpur: Nobody in Bulandshahr’s Jaunpur village would’ve thought that the western UP region will be marred by communal violence on Monday. Only a day before, the residents of Jaunpur village had hosted Muslim devotees in their Shiva temple on Sunday afternoon.
 
Muslim devotees that had gathered for the Ijtema, an integral part of Tablighi Jamaat, were stuck at Jaunpur due to increasing traffic congestion. It was time for their Johri (Afternoon) Namaz and they had no place to pray as reaching the mosque on time was out of the question.
 
They narrated their tale to the locals and the villagers decided to consult the temple committee members. Together they decide to open the temple gates of the local Shiva temple. Water taps were opened for ‘wazu’ and prayer mats for the Namaz were organised in the courtyard.
 
“The message of love and brotherhood should spread far and wide. Some Muslim brothers got stuck in the traffic jam here and it was namaz time. Since there wasn’t any other place for them to offer prayers, we opened the gate of the Shiva temple and asked them to come inside,” said Amar Singh, a priest at the Shiva temple to Time of India.
 
“Love is prayer and prayer is love, and we just did our little bit,” said Chaudhary Sahab Singh, a member of the temple management committee. He had said that nobody should be stopped from offering prayers in a temple.
 
They wanted to send a message of peace and brotherhood but this feat was eclipsed by gory violence on Monday when cow vigilantes took to the streets protesting cow slaughter and caused a stir. A policeman and a local student were murdered in the crossfire.
 

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Image Courtesy: Express Tribune

Lahore: As politicians mulled over the impact of the Kartarpur corridor between India and Pakistan, emotions were running high across the border. After the gruesome partition of India and Pakistan in 1947, separated siblings received a chance at a reunion on the 549^th anniversary of Guru Nanak.
 
Two Pakistani Muslim sisters, Ulfat Bibi and Mairaj Bibi reunited with their Indian Sikh brother Sardar Bayanth Singh after 71 years at Gurdwara Janam Asthan in Nankana Sahib, Pakistan.
 
“The family was resident of Paracha village near Dera Baba Nanak Gurdaspur, India before the historic partition. However, in the partition a daughter and son went missing. The family later migrated to Pakistan leaving behind their two children. The mother, Allah Rakhhi, later contacted one of her former neighbours and learnt the whereabouts of her son Bayanth,” Express Tribune reported. The whereabouts of the fourth sibling, presumed to be a daughter, could not be accessed.
 
Bayanth has been in contact with his sisters over letters and phone calls ever since. He was able to plan a pilgrimage to the Nankana Sahib’s Gurdwara this year, where he had the opportunity to meet his sisters.
 
“Speaking to the media, Ulfat Bibi expressed the desire to be allowed to travel to India where she can meet her sister-in-law and nieces and nephews. Ulfat and Miraj have appealed Prime Minister Imran Khan to extend their brother’s visa if he cannot be granted Pakistan nationality,” the report said.
 
Pakistan and India are working together to open the Kartarpur Corridor, a pilgrim route to from India to Gurudwara Kartarpur Sahib in Pakistan. It is the final resting place of Guru Nanak who spent the last 18 years of his life here. The cross-border pilgrim route is expected to help thousands of Sikh devotees to visit one of their most important religious places.

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Editor and Publisher of Zen Publications, Yogesh Sharma recounted how his maternal grandfather used to read the Ramayana in Urdu, beginning from the back of the book and reading right to left. In a Facebook post reminiscing the days gone by, he wrote a heartfelt tribute to the diversity of languages and culture in India.
 
He wrote about the struggles his grandfather faced when reading Hindi but was an expert Urdu calligrapher and English speaker.
 
Full text of the story below:
 
My maternal grandfather spent his entire life in Chandni Chowk, Old Delhi. A high caste North Indian Brahmin by birth, he had a peculiar problem: he could read Urdu and Farsi and English but he could not read Hindi! He could speak it, he could understand it but he couldn’t read it. The Devanagri characters simply left him baffled. When we kids would go out with him we would tease him. “Nanaji, read that sign.” He would shrug and say “Beta, main Hindi nahi padh sakta.” (Son, I can’t read Hindi.) He could read the Hindi numbers, he could read bus routes, he could read some signs on shops in Dariba or Khari Baoli but if you gave him a Hindi newspaper he would sheepishly return it to you unread. If someone wrote him a letter, he would hand it over to his wife who would read it out to him. But his Urdu was marvellous and his calligraphic Urdu handwriting would have been the envy of an industrious maulvi. He would write his accounts in a parchment paper sewn-notebook, beginning from the last page, writing right to left. Black ink, print-neat handwriting. If some official work had to be done, he would manage using his top-notch English skills. He once told me most of his dreams were in English. Be that as it may his sense of humour was largely Old Delhi Urdu-ish – wry, fatalistic, sarcastic or building on a witty play of words and puns. His laughter was deep but not loud; his eyes would sparkle, his mouth would tip a trifle to the left, his belly would wiggle like a jelly pot though the laughter itself would be more a rapid series of guffaws than a roar.
 
But the most amazing experience was of my Nanaji doing his pooja. He would roll out a square rug near the living room window and open out a creaky wooden bookstand. He would slowly put on his battered spectacles over his large ears and gently unwrap his Ramayan from the rich silk cloth it was wrapped in. Next he would patiently fold away the silk wrapper keeping it neatly to his left. After that he would place the Ramayan on the stand and bow his head in reverence. And then he would slowly open the last page of the book and start reading his Ramayan – this Ramayan was in Urdu and so he read it backwards, beginning from the back of the book and reading right to left!
 

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Mumbai: When prayers for Lord Ganesh end in the evening in this pandal, the Maulana’s speech begins to mark the day of Moharram at the same venue.
 
“Near Bhavan’s College in Andheri, the Ganeshotsav and Moharram mandals of Janata Colony SRA hamlet are located 20m apart. “We finish the evening aarti by 9pm because that is when the maulana begins his public speech. Both communities organise the community bhandara meal after after visarjan and the niyaz langar after Ashura,” says resident Linganna Mudguni in the report by Times of India.
 
Showing how hate hurts and harmony works, Hindu and Muslim citizens from Thane, Mumbra, Ghatkopar and other areas in Mumbai along with villages like Yavatmal celebrated Ganeshotsav and Moharram together.
 
“The residents gave a message of communal harmony by conducting Ganesha aarti and the azaan for Muharram in the same pandal, set up by the Ekta Mitra Mandal. Another devotee present inside the pandal said, “There is no rivalry between Hindus and Muslims and it is the politicians who instigate people and try to create a rift between us just before the elections in order to get the mandate. Everybody in our village, irrespective of caste, likes to participate in such events together,” reported India.com from Mumbra village, a suburb of Thane.
 
Hindus performed Ganesh aarti and Muslims performed azaan together on September 20 in the same pandal of ‘Ekta Mitr Mandal’ in Thane’s Mumbra. “The majilis was organised by the Hussaini Foundation. “We celebrate festivals together. We have a common mic and loudspeaker and coordinate our prayers’ timings,” a devotee told ANI. Abdul Razzak, chief of the Hussaini Foundation, told NBT, “Certain people deliberately try to create a rift between the two communities for their benefit. It is important to be careful of such people.” Mumbai Police took to Twitter to share a photo and captioned it, “The real beauty of Mumbai City in one frame – a Muharram Chabil next to Lord Ganesha pandal at Ambika Nagar, Parksite #UnityInDiversity #Ganeshotsav,” reported Mumbai Mirror.
 

 
The Islamic new year begins on the first day of Moharram which fell on September 11 this year. Shias observe Moharram as a period of mourning for the martyrs of the battle of Karbala. This season peaks on the tenth day, that is Ashura on September 20, while Ganeshotsav will conclude on September 23. While one conducts itself in a somber and spiritual mood, the other is a celebratory festival full of pomp and colours.
 
“The Ram Rahim mandal of Nityanand Nagar Ghatkopar is a singular example of brotherhood. Burqa-clad women sometimes join the evening aarti and the mandal workers help organise the Moharram speeches and build the ceremonial taziya on Ashura,” reported TOI.
 
Known for the horrible communal clashes of 2006 and 2008, Yavatmal also set an example of unity in diversity by organizing Ganesh Chathurthi and Moharram celebrations together.
 
“A non-descript village in Maharashtra’s Yavatmal district, which earlier witnessed communal unrest, has now set an example of brotherhood by installing both the ‘Muharram sawari’ and Lord Ganesh’s idol under one roof. Prayers are being held uninterruptedly by both the Hindu and Muslim communities at the same venue at Vidul village in Yavatmal’s Umarkhed tehsil,” reported The New Indian Express.
 
The initiative was taken by Yavatmal Superintendent of Police Megnathan Rajkumar. He instructed the Umarkhed police station inspector, Hanumant Gaikwad, to call a peace meeting of villagers on September 8 in the gram panchayat office.
 
“Gaikwad conveyed the SP’s suggestion to villagers that they should think of holding the Ganesh and Muharram functions jointly. The villagers unanimously accepted the suggestion and set up a pandal at Nalsaheb Devsthan temple in Vidul where both the religious functions are being held. The temple trust’s chairman, Jayaram Dhage, said the Ganesh festival is being celebrated in the religious premises for the last 134 years. “Some years, Ganpati and Muharram coincide. We have now decided that whenever these two festivals coincide, we will celebrate them together with fervour and enthusiasm,” he said in the report by TNIE.
 

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