What Are the Best Examples of Hindu-Muslim Unity?
It was during the Sravan month at a local Shiv temple in my village that I captured a picture that signifies the essence of Hindu-Muslim unity. The person selling agarbatti and flowers was a Muslim, offering these items with such grace and goodwill. This could not have been better.
Police Perspective on Hindu-Muslim Relations
As a police officer, I have had the privilege to witness and be a part of many stories featuring Hindu-Muslim harmony. Some of these stories have been difficult and have gained significant attention, but many have been sweet and remained unheard. It is with such a spirit that I wish to share a notable instance of unity that caught my eye.
We generally request intimation regarding Ganesh Chaturthi programs, ensuring we have the necessary arrangements in place. One day before the installation of Ganesh ji, a Muslim man approached my office for intimation. In amazement, I asked, "You are a Muslim!" He simply replied, "So what?" He was right. Reflecting on this, I asked if anyone would support him, receiving the response that he was invited to witness the program.
A Day of Cultural Harmony
The day after the installation, I visited the village to see if the villagers were celebrating together. Not only were they dancing to the tune of dandiya, but everyone, regardless of their religious affiliations, was involved. The theme of the pandal was 'Beti Bachao Beti Padhao,' emphasizing the importance of girls’ education and empowerment.
Fast-forward to the ninth day of Muharram, coinciding with the 11th day of the Hindu calendar, a celebration known as Dolgyaras. The procession of Gods and their stories, complete with replicas called taziyas and jhankis, marched through the town. The route for both processions was similar, but instead of conflict, the remarkable sight was one of unity. Taziyas and jhankis shared the route, advancing simultaneously through the market.
Hand in Hand: A Celebration of Diversity
The next day when taziyas approached Karbala, Hindu brothers walked alongside their Muslim counterparts, showing mutual respect. Sherbat counters were equally respected by jhankis, and vice versa for pandals and taziyas. Both communities honored and appreciated the police personnel who worked tirelessly for two and a half days during this festival.
There was one shared habit, however, which united both communities. People threw garbage haphazardly regardless of their religion, a behavior they were all too familiar with. Despite this, they remained united in their efforts to celebrate their festivals and respect the freedom of others to do the same.
A Young Generation of Unity
The young generation in the village was full of zeal, celebrating their festivals and respecting others' freedom to do the same. True unity, it seems, lies not in grand narratives or social media but in the ground-level interactions where respect and understanding flourish. This experience served as a powerful reminder that the rift often perceived is often a social media illusion, and there are countless instances of genuine coexistence and harmony.
Jai Hind. This shared experience reaffirms the importance of respecting and celebrating diversity, thereby fostering a more united society.
Conclusion
In the face of polarizing narratives, it is essential to recognize and celebrate the instances of unity and coexistence. The stories of harmony between communities like these must be acknowledged, remembered, and passed on. Let us strive for a society that values and promotes such unity, ensuring that such harmony continues for generations to come. Jai Hind.
Note: The taziyas of Jaora are particularly famous for being associated with the Nawab Riyasat of the past, further highlighting the cultural richness and historical ties between Hindu and Muslim communities in Malva.