Photo that shows Hindu-Muslim bonding, brotherhood has taken social media by storm: Communal Harmony Project-48

This photograph has just gone viral on the internet. 

So many people are sharing it on social media, admiring it.

Of course, no caption is needed for the photo. It shows two processions passing by a route and the participants meeting, greeting the other(s)

There are positive vibes that come out. It all looks so good, almost surreal. 

That's different from another parallel world where even an advertisement that gives a message of brotherhood, can lead to people calling for boycott of brands.

Frankly, there are still lot of mixed localities in most cities in India. There are committees that organise events, take processions and have members of different communities in them. 

And, there are organisations, peace committees, where too they interact, support each others in events. Culturally too Muslims visit many Hindu functions and Hindus visit many Muslim events.

Just that we must share these stories and pictures as much as possible. It is learnt that this photo is from Silwassa. The Muharram procession and the Ganesha procession were passing through the same road. 

[Harmony exists all around us but is often ignored. Instead, stories of hate, discord and communalism get spread easily.

There are a million examples in our daily lives across India but they don't get promoted, hence, news of hate and discord gets heard more. Let's change it, now.

This is a small attempt to change it through Communal Harmony Project]

For reading similar reports on this blog, Click the link HERE and also find out more about Communal Harmony Project]

#Communalharmony #Communalharmonyproject #India

Muslim artists perform Ram Lila in Lucknow: Communal Harmony Project-33

Communal harmony is not a term that's just used in books or speeches.

It the spirit of this country, even if people ignore numerous incidents around themselves.

The photograph on the left can give you an indication.

Lucknow is known for its communal harmony and composite culture.

Ram Lila is annually held in Bakhshi Ka Talab locality here and it has mostly Muslim artists.

Either it is Sabir Khan who is the director and has also played roles in the Ram Leela in the past or Safaraz Khan, audience simply love them for their unique presentation.

The Ram Lila brings to fore the life of Lord Rama on the stage. But apart from the Bakhshi ka Talab event, there are other Ram Lilas that too have Muslim characters and Muslims among organisers-patrons.

The convenor of the Lucknow Ramlila Association says that the biggest of all--Ram Lila at Aishbagh in Lucknow, is unimaginable without the partcipation of Shamsur Rahman Naved. Lucknow is known for its communal harmony.

But all over the country, Ram Lilas are staged with Muslims as organisers, artists, audiences and supporters. In Mewat region too, it is part of the culture. Either in Punhana or Tavdu, Muslim artists--musicians, actors, take part in the presentation. Photo courtesy, Hindi daily Patrika [Patrika.com]

[Harmony exists all around us but is often ignored. Instead, stories of hate, discord and communalism get spread easily.

There are a million examples in our daily lives across India but they don't get promoted, hence, news of hate and discord gets heard more. Let's change it, now. This is a small attempt to change it through Communal Harmony Project]

For reading similar reports on this blog, Click the link HERE and also find out more about Communal Harmony Project

#communalharmony #communalharmonyproject #india

Daud Khan Ramayani, Muslim man famous for Ramayan discourses passes away, Chhattisgarh mourns: Communal Harmony Project-32

Entire Chhattisgarh was in a state of mourning as Daud Khan passed away.

The 93-year-old was known for his discourses on Ramayan and life of Lord Rama [from Ramcharit Manas] that were attended by thousands.

A household name in Chhattisgarh, Daud Khan had been reciting and delivering the disourses, since 1947.

For nearly 70 years, he gave the 'Manas Pravachans' in more than 1,000 cities, town and villages across different states.

Lovingly termed 'Baba' or 'Khan Sahab', Daud Khan hailed from Dhamtari, now a separate district, which was once part of the Greater Raipur district.

His first lecture was in Allahabad University in 1947. From 1949 to 1960, he travelled from village to village, reciting the 'Ram Katha', delivering discourses about the life of Lord Rama.

Subsequently, he developed his own style--explaining Ramcharit Manas 'prasangs'. People would get entranced and said that they felt contentment and happiness after listening to him. Always agile and fit, despite his age--from UP to Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh to Odisha, he would go to faraway places.

Not just Tulsi, he was inspired with Kabir too. President VV Giri had felicitated him in 1970. Later on, he got many other state-level and national awards. As per his wishes, he was buried in the grave-yard at Kurud in Dhamatri.

Top politicians, dignitaries expressed their shock at his death.  However, it was the outpouring of grief by the public, the ordinary people in Chhattisgarh, which showed the love Chhattisgarhis had for him.

Newspapers published entire pages, devoted to his life. Daud Khan Ramayani was a teacher. Apart from religious discourses, he was active in social work. Though he hardly had any extra money, he devoted himself to education of poor children.

He financed many children's education up to the graduation and engineering, especially, those from the under-privileged background. Such was the nonagenarian's popularity and his dedication that Ramayani became a part of his name.

He had command over many languages including Sanskrit, Urdu, Hindi and Chhattisgarhi.

Apart from Hinduism and Islam, he had studied other religious texts, especially, Guru Granth Sahib, too.

His daughter Badrunnisa said that when at home, he would recite the Katha to family, neighbours and friends, for 45 minutes every day.

Minister Ajay Chandrakar who was his student, said that his teacher Daud Khan had a lasting influence on his life.

Chief minister Raman Singh expressed profound grief at the demise of the famous preacher.

He said that Daud Khan was to hold a Ram Katha pravachan in Raj Bhawan within a few days. Photos are courtesy Dainik Bhaskar.

[Harmony exists all around us but is often ignored. Instead, stories of hate, discord and communalism get spread easily.

There are a million examples in our daily lives across India but they don't get promoted, hence, news of hate and discord gets heard more. Let's change it, now. This is a small attempt to change it through Communal Harmony Project]

For reading similar reports on this blog, Click the link HERE and also find out more about Communal Harmony Project

#communalharmony #communalharmonyproject #india

Muslim sons perform Hindu mother's last rites in Mumbai: Communal Harmony Project-30

When elderly lady passed away, the entire Muslim locality was in mourning.

They performs her last rites, after all, she was like a mother to the boys.

Sakhu Kiran Singh lived in the part of Malad where Muslims form nearly 98% of the population.

For them, she was like an elder, a mother. Many local Muslim boys affectionately called her 'Tai' also.

She lived alone in her house but celebrated Ganeshotsava. Muslim youths bore the responsibility of the entire event--from Aarti to Visarjan. She also took part in Muslim festivites and events.

Besides, during Muharram she kept the 'sabeel'. When she passed away, all the local Muslims performed last rites. After Friday prayers, the funeral procession began and ended at Oshiwara Shamshan Ghat.

All Hindu rituals were observed. Karim Bhai lit the funeral pyre. Later, they went to Nasik for 'pind-daan'. The after-death rituals including 'terahvi' was also observed duly. The 'puja' was held. Ghaus Khan and Karim performed the rituals as if they were her sons.

The youths conduct each and every ritual, in the way the woman's kin would have performed them.
In a way it is sad that today we feel the need to highlight these aspects of our composite culture.

It happens across India. This is what humanity is all about. Standing for each other in life and even in death.It is unfortunate that today we need to highlight these aspects. The reason is there are people who grow up insulated from the other community.

They have grown up in localities where they didn't have many friends from diverse background. Even in schools and jobs, there is little interaction. Further, online hate campaigns and propaganda makes them believe that there is a rift between Hindus and Muslims. Hence, there is need to write about these aspects.

Read one of the reports in Hindi at this LINK

[Harmony exists all around us but is often ignored. Instead, stories of hate, discord and communalism get spread easily.

There are a million examples in our daily lives across India but they don't get promoted, hence, news of hate and discord gets heard more. Let's change it, now. This is a small attempt to change it through Communal Harmony Project]

For reading similar reports on this blog, Click the link HERE and also find out more about Communal Harmony Project

#communalharmony #communalharmonyproject #india

[Photos courtesy, LINK to sotry: India Today]

Muslim couple defies curfew, walks for miles to provide food to Hindu family in Kashmir: Communal Harmony Project-29

After Hizbul Mujahideen commander Burhan Wani's killing in an encounter with security forces, Jammu and Kashmir is on the boil.

Dozens of youths have died in firing and scores have their vision affected as pellets hit their eyes.

Curfew has been enforced in many parts of the valley.

Besides, this is the period when Amarnath Yatra has already begun.

Amid reports of deaths and gloom, there are also stories from the region that show how people risk their lives for the sake humanity, even in such a situation.


This Kashmiri Muslim couple braved a strict curfew to take food to his Kashmiri Pandit family's house. Zubaida Begam and her husband walked for miles, risking lives, after receiving telephone from across Jhelum river from the KP friend, reports India Today.

Diwan Chand and his family, including an ailing grandmother, were desperate for help as crisis mounted in the Valley. Shops were shut, no transport and curfew was imposed. Yet, they managed to reach Diwan Chand Pandit's house, with the ration.

The truth is that there are innumerable examples of communal harmony in our day to day live and we all are aware.

But negative truth travels faster and makes greater impact. We must not let the bad stories overshadow the good and positive aspects of our society.

Thank you, India Today, for highlighting a good story about the relations, closeness of people on the ground. The original story is here.

[Harmony exists all around us but is often ignored. Instead, stories of hate, discord and communalism get spread easily.

There are a million examples in our daily lives across India but they don't get promoted, hence, news of hate and discord gets heard more. Let's change it, now. This is a small attempt to change it through Communal Harmony Project]

For reading similar reports on this blog, Click HERE

#communalharmony #communalharmonyproject #india

[Photos courtesy, LINK to sotry: India Today]

BJP leader attending iftaar is neither appeasement nor politics, rather it's a social necessity and goodwill gesture

When Assam chief minister Sarbananda Sonowal attended a Roza Iftar party, it led to strong reactions from right-wing on social media.

Suddenly, Twitterati were commenting on the practice of politicians attending 'iftaars' and it was termed as appeasement.

Many BJP-leaning people on Facebook and Twitter who were earlier Sonowal's ardent supporters were upset and their reaction was that he shouldn't have gone there.

1. First thing, a politician represents all the people. Just like he attends Hindu functions, he can attend Muslim or Christian or Sikh events too.

2. Second thing, just becoming a politician or member of a political party doesn't mean you sever all your relations. You are a human being with friends from school, college, past, and who invite you. Then, there are business partners, Muslims in your own party and they will invite you.

3. Third point is that it is not to get votes at all. He also knows that Muslims don't have a wonderful relationship with BJP. He has just won and there is no election in near future. For Muslims, who say that there is no need for 'political iftaar', that is another debate, and individual Hindus or Muslims are also intelligent enough to know who to vote for or not.

4. We live in a society and there are Hindu, Muslim, friends from all sections. One can't cut himself/herself off from opponents. He wasn't in BJP when he was born. And even those who may have been born in party, have Muslim acquaintances. Of course, right-wing guys on social media [and real life] expects BJP and Hindu leaders to severe all connection with Muslims, but it is impractical.

Twitter handle @AnnihilationofCaste wrote that in a state that has more than 30% Muslims [37%], he can't cut himself off from the section of population. Obviously. But for the passionate hate brigade, it is blasphemy. The leader has failed them.

5. Last but not the least, there are few who feel that Hindu politicians go to Muslim events but Muslims don't go to Hindu events. Sorry, they have no idea and have skewed vision [narrow eyesight].

As they don't want to see, else they will find Muslims going to all Hindu events wherever they are invited. Qazis, Ulemas and ordinary Muslims going to attend Hindu religious events. They go to Kumbh too and attend bhandaras as well. Also, sit through 'puja' silently and respectfully.

6. The most common and predictable reaction from certain right-wing people on social media is that, "Hindus wear topi but Muslims don't sport tilak". Really! I have serious doubts that you ever get out of your social media room or the chamber where you work in a software company [US or India], as no one probably invites you to any function in lanes of real India. For you guys, the photos and the entire thing in perspective, here, if you are interested, check this link:

READ: People who don't want Hindus to wear skullcap or Muslims to sport Tilak...

ANOTHER ASPECT TO THIS DEBATE: SECULARISM VS APPEASEMENT

Yes, we don't need politicians hosting iftaars but if they do or they attend an iftar, there is nothing wrong. And please stop saying that it is for votes. No one gives votes because of iftaar parties.

Reason: Organised right-wing has taken things to such level that when a Hindu politician even attends 'iftaar' [at a friend's or Muslim organisation's place], it is termed as Tushtikaran or Appeasement, though there may be puja [& other religious events] in official functions & its not Majority Appeasement.

If a leader goes to meet Sikhs and they offer him 'pagri', it is not termed Tushtikaran. But if a politician just goes to iftaar, it is 'Tushtikaran'.

And why do you want to stop every interaction where people at least get to know something about other's religion. Non-communal, genuine Hindu politicians at mohalla level are getting pushed to wall because the moment a politician goes to iftaar, it is termed 'appeasement'. 

So shall everybody stop these traditions?

In CM House in Bhopal, all festivals are celebrated from Diwali to Holi, Guru Parab to Christmas. Nothing of Muslims, just an iftaar once, where Muslims go. Do you want all this too, to go.

It is not the Western secularism practiced in certain countries where there is no religious association anywhere. Here, you will have all religions. 

Here is a series of Tweets after the controversy when right-wing Twitterati alleged that Hindus go to Muslim functions but Muslims don't do it. 

* Topi or Tilak doesn't Islamise-Hinduise or stereotype. There are courtesies too, something is culture, something is your local society too.
* Muslims go to friends' places for 'Bhagwat katha', 'Bhandara', 'Bada Mangal' all sort of celebrations & so do Hindus in Muslim events.
* Many social media-walas who never attended mohalla functions dont know Muslims at Hindu functions welcomed with tilak, which they sport happily
* When there is death, every janaza in my city has Hindu family friends stand at Namaz-e-Janaza and Muslim friends encircling pyre.
* One of my Hindu friend’s son was critical and Muslim girls were reciting Quran sharif andoffered taravih outside ICCU. Last week, This is India.
* One of my Hindu friend's son was critical & Muslim girls were reciting Quran Sharif, and offering taravih in ICCU. Last week. This is India.

Hindus, Muslims, Christians join hands to celebrate Ganeshotsava in Mumbai: Communal Harmony Project-22

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If you believe in communal harmony, you will find inter-religious harmony at every nook and corner in India.

You will find innumerable examples among your friends, acquaintances and in your neighbourhood.

It is not about Mumbai alone. In other cities too, it is a common sight, to see people participating in construction of tableaux.

Similarly, if you don't believe in this idea, and somehow feel that there is eternal conflict between certain religions and their adherents, you will not be able to see this beautiful and syncretic culture, which has always thrived in India.

See the photograph on the left. It is about the Ganpati celebration in Mumbai. The hoarding has the names of organisers. There are Aditya and Shyam, along with Obaid Khan and Farhan Mirza. With them is Anthony D'sa and Nafis Syed.

Many of us walk past such hoardings without casting a glance. For cynics, even this may not be enough. But this cultural unity is part of our daily lives in India. On social media, especially, Twitter, we encounter people who give an impression as if different communities are always at loggerheads and have nothing common.

Now there is the second photograph below. It shows banner of an organisation congratulating Muslims on Ramzan. The organisation's name is 'Shree Naveen Ekta Durga Utsava Samiti' and along with the Goddess' photograph, it also carries '786', 'crescent' and the message for Muslims on Ramzan.

They are not politicians, who are trying to seek votes. They are all ordinary individuals, who have friends of different communities, and who share each others' pain and pleasure.

It is not about Ganesh Chaturthi alone but is true for most festivals in this country.

Yes, this is the real India. The virtual world may give you the impression that Hindus and Muslims are always arguing, fighting and accusing each other.

But reality is that the hate-filled Tweeples can't even put up a banner or a hoarding, let alone organise events on the street.They may spread hate round the clock, but can't come out of their bubble, to do something constructive that can enrich the lives of the people.

The real culture, the shared heritage is there on the street. This is the true Indian culture.

[Top photo. Courtesy my dear friend Ganesh ji, who BLOGS HERE]

Tilak, Topi in Indian politics: People don't want Hindu politicians to wear skullcap or Muslim leaders to sport 'tilak' or perform Puja

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Media often takes up the issue of Narendra Modi not wearing a 'topi' [skullcap]. I don't think it is an issue at all.

Do you think those who oppose him would have a change of heart, if he wears the topi! Still, on TV & social media, this issue is raised time and again.

Amid conversation with Muslim friends, this topic often came up. Not a single Muslim I met, ever said that he expects or wants Modi to wear the topi.

Why should it be expected? In fact, the person who offered him topi shouldn't have done it. Citizens want the politician to be honest and work, rather than do such gestures. People on the street are more smart than journos believe them to be.

Another interesting aspect is that many people write that while Hindus are expected to wear topi, Muslims don't do anything like that? Arrey bhai, this is no secularism. Just for the sake of information, I should tell you that Muslims not just sport 'tilak' but many politicians have even done puja.

So? How many Hindu leaders perform Namaz? Is this a debate at all? Muslims remember how PV Narasimharao spoke in chaste Urdu on TV just after 'allowing' the demolition of Babri Masjid, and even promising that he would rebuild the masjid again at the same spot.

LK Advani is seen covered in green cloth at Ajmer shrine but don't we remember his Rath Yatra? They do it for reasons they know best. 

Topi is no Islamic symbol though it has become one in India. In Arab, even in mosques you don't need to cover your head, during prayers.

In India, media image of Muslims is that of a person who is wearing the skullcap. Till a few decades back, it used to be the Turkish cap.

But in India, we have a unique culture. Hindus and Muslims, despite their perceived differences, attend each others' programmes and even religious events.

Prominent persons are invited at such places, and to offer respect, the person is either offered 'headgear', made to wear 'saafa', or 'tilak' applied on forehead. This doesn't mean everything should be seen as Communal Vs Secular or Hindu Vs Muslim.

Section of media splashes the pictures to create CONTROVERSY and then seeks others' opinion to get TRP. Though this is a non-issue. When Mamata Bannerji covers her head, the photo is seen as 'interesting' and gets published. Lalu Yadav, Mulayam and even Atal Bihari Vajpayee were seen wearing topi at iftaar. 

Muslim politicians with 'tilak' are common to see at any event. In fact, Muslim leaders often go to temples and even pray.

Yes, they do it too, despite all allegations of Muslims being more rigid. Do Hindus expect them to do it? No. Only a fool will call it appeasement. And no one forces them to do it either.

While passing the area, the leader feels that he should go to the temple, he goes. Nobody prevails upon the neta to do that or even bow head before God or Goddess.

I know many Muslims who have no objection getting a 'tilak' on their forehead. But some may not because they don't have Hindu friends from childhood.

Similarly, many Hindus easily go to mosque or dargah while some don't, again, because these Hindus didn't have close Muslim friends early in the life. You can't judge people over these issues. All these gestures are more about your personal feelings.

A person does it also because of his society, his childhood friends and his/her engagement with people in his/her area.

A person or politician may not resort to such gestures but at the same time he could be many times more honest and just.

In fact, those who talk about such things, probably, have never lived in the real India, and have no idea about the strength of Hindu-Muslim bonding at the ground level.

As I start thinking, I can recall many more politicians doing such acts. It is their personal choice. They often do it to respect others sentiments. It is not right to say that they are fooling us. 

Would you call these acts as 'Hindu Tushtikaran' or 'Hindu Appeasement'. Of course, not. We are a diverse country of multiple faiths and overlapping cultural practices.

Don't we all remember, how Samajwadi Party MLA Chaudhary Bashir was attacked by a section of clerics for Puja at Hanuman temple in Agra. 

And MUSLIM LEAGUE's leader Cherkulam Abdullah went to mutt and sported vermilion [tilak] on his head, leading to a controversy.

There is no dearth of such incidents. We are a unique society. It can't be judged from British, American or any other point of view. We are a nation of 1.2 billion persons. There will be many trivial incidents every day and at the same time there will be many great events too.

Depends, what you track, what you see, what you are shown and what you want to believe.

MORAL of the Story

Those in media who feel that Muslim with tilak is doing 'Hindu tushtikaran' or Hindu wearing topi is 'Muslim appeasement' are not too much far from those who think India is just a land of snake charmers and yogis. Or you perhaps had most interaction with the 'Other' on just social media and internet. 

Get a life, yaar.

Check these links if you want to read more

1. Photograph of Tariq Anwar sporting the 'tilak' courtesy The Hindu

2. Shazia Ilmi's photographs at Bhaskar's website

3. Muslim MLA condemned for puja at Hanuman temple Times of India

4. Last photo courtesy Business Insider [Rajesh Kumar Singh]

5. Muslim League Minister Cherkulam Abdullah sported tilak Link
6. Atal Bihari Vajpayee's photo wearing topi. Courtesy S Arneja [Frontline]

'Religious clocks' sell briskly at this shop: Will you buy Hindu Clock or Muslim Clock?

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Just a few days back, I had an interesting experience. A friend had bought a watch for me as a gift from abroad but I couldn't wear it because its strap [chain] was loose.

That day I went out with the watch in my pocket. On way, I saw a small shop where there was no customer.

It took the man barely a few minutes to take out the links and fix them again, using the hammer and other equipment. 

I asked him, if I could get a good clock. The wall clocks in my house were not working well. In the drawing room, the clock stopped after a few weeks. I changed batteries but nothing happened. I replaced the clocks but the problem persisted.

The shop owner asked me, 'Kaun si ghadi lenge?'. 'Koi si bhi dikha dijiye", I said. "Dharmik [religious] ghadi chalegi?". "Kaun si". "Hindu ghadi ya Muslim ghadi", came the reply. "Ji?" "Yahi zyada chal rahi hain aaj kal", he said. Now I was a bit surprised. He pointed his finger towards these clocks.

There were lines of such clocks. The background had either Hindu gods or Islamic photographs. Hmm, so these are the Hindu and the Muslim Ghadis!

"Log lete hain inko?", I again asked. "Sab se zyada yahi chalti hain, bhai sahab", he said. "Hindu wali mein Ganesh ji wali zyada bikti hai", he added.

There was another interesting aspect. The price range was slightly different. For example, if clocks of A group cost Rs 160, the clocks of B group cost Rs 170.

Now I won't tell you which clock--Hindu or Muslim, is costlier of the two, because it will lead to different interpretations. You can, of course, speculate.

There were no Christian or Sikh clocks though. I came out wondering, why would people buy these clocks?

Is it just a fad. Or because this shop was near a locality of particular economic stratum, that these clocks sold more in this area?

I don't think that big showrooms would have many such clocks. Perhaps, when a person takes home the 'religious clock', the family members are happy.

As they feel that there is another godly or spiritual thingon their wall. People put up religious posters, calendars, photographs on the walls for a variety of reasons. 

So it is the 'Barkat wali ghadi' or as goes the old adage 'Aam ke aam, guthliyo.n ke daam'.

It is also possible that a Hindu may be Muslim clock or a Muslim may buy Hindu clock. Yes, it happens a lot, when people buy gifts, for friends.

Friends have gifted my Perso-Arabic calligraphy in the past. While I end this post, just a reminder. It is a light post. I found it amusing and so wrote about it.

There is a demand for certain type of goods and so they sell. It is not like the 'Hindu water, Muslim water' sold in pre-independent era. So don't take it to your heart. 

Secularism in India: Lessons on communal harmony, religious tolerance and humanism from the ground [Communal Harmony Project-20]

First the story about 'J' who runs a well-known coaching institute. Even though there are just one or two Muslims in every class, he ensures that the institute is closed on Muslim holidays.

I got to know about it and asked him why he did it? The man [J] said that he felt that even if there is a lone student, he would feel that he doesn't belong to this place, if we declare off on Diwali but not on Id. That's not all.

When a Muslim teacher joined, the institute owner told the newcomer, "We've a corner where we have put up idols.

You can also put an Islamic sign, a picture of your holy places [Kaaba Sharif], a calendar or whatever you want". I again asked him, 'How did you think of it?'. "It was natural. When we have Hindu gods, there must be a Muslim religious symbol also. It will also send good message to students, who will realise that their teachers set such example.

Hats off to the man. Don't you feel respect for him. J is a Hindu. But there is another person. A lady, 'T', who is a Muslim but runs a predominantly Muslim school but here Hindu kids not only read Sanskrit but also get teachings in Vedas.

The composite culture on the street

This happens because this is our culture. This comes naturally to innumerable persons in India. No one has taught us secularism. Some call it basic human values, for others it is what they learnt from elders & family and for others it is pure secularism or humanism.

From a Muslim who sells 'garlands' sitting on the premises of Bhawani Temple to a Hindu woman who cleaned the floor of a mosque for decades [no Muslim lived in the area or ventured there], we have such stories in abundance.

Living for centuries in such a multi-ethnic, multi-religious, multi-cultural society, our social milieu has evolved over hundreds of years. Still, it hurts when suddenly there are immature questions from people in this country, who seem to have got their worldview of religions from the post-9/11 America or countries that have no such legacy for multiculturalism. 

In India, a vast majority is secular. But now there is a small number of people who hide behind anonymity offered by web, to post communal and hate-filled messages on different forums including social networking websites like Facebook & Twitter, giving the impression that it is they who are in the majority. 

Nehruvian secularism, Hindustani cinema secularism

All of us have different stories, experiences. We had Nehruvian secularism in which Muslim wearing red Turkish cap appeared in government advertisements along with Hindu, Sikh and Christian kids, we had cliched Bollywood secularism but it was also important.

In movies, the D'Souzas and Khan uncles gave the same lesson. It worked on minds. Every minority felt that they truly belonged. It all affected us. This is a lesson for everyone in all places including other countries. Minorities should feel belonged. 

Sadly, the situation has changed with a generation that is educated. In 'bastis', slums and settlements, where there is are mixed neighbourhoods, people know so much about religious practices of other faiths. But in posh colonies, where there is little interaction, people are getting insulated.

Mosque with Ganesh idol, Temple with Muslim-Christian-Sikh symbols

Growing intolerance, Hardened attitudes

Colonies are being built on caste-basis also. I felt shattered when a Hindu friend said that the sound of Azaan  [not on loud speaker] was noise for his ear.

Just 1 minute, you can't tolerate it! Similarly, when a Muslim friend said that there was lot of religiosity in a particular Hindu event and he wasn't comfortable.

Why? Why should educated people get so intolerant. They can 'manage' everywhere, do all sorts of 'compromises' but when it comes to views about each other, there is strange fundamentalism, hardened attitudes and lack of understanding. 

There is nothing great in just looking at differences and point out each others' faults or looking at the other with disdain. We've a glorious tradition of composite culture [ganja-jamuni tehzib] from times immemorial and despite many faults, it is much more inclusive. 

These days there is such level of cynicism that if you write about good deeds of a person, you are instantly told, 'Look we are like that, but will you guys ever be even half as good'. So you keep balancing all the time, then justifying, explaining [arguing] and it goes on and on. Regarding communal mindset, I'd say that its all in your eye (and mind), what you want to see you'll see.

If you believe in harmony, you will find instances of it everywhere. If you believe in 'hate-filled' ideology, you will never get convinced by innumerable such examples, because it means the defeat for your ideology which you might consider as your personal defeat and hence you won't agree to the other point of view.

I just wish that rather than scornfully rejecting our traditions, we should take pride in our unique secularism and this value system which we inherited from our elders and that evolved on the streets and in the mohallas. The stories I recounted in the post initially are spread in abundance all around us.

This post is in context of the following post:

1. Hindu temple that bears Christian, Muslim, Sikh religious symbols
2. Mosque that turns temple every year: Lord Ganesha installed in this Muslim place of worship

[*I didn't name J and T because I didn't take their permission. I wish to write about them and those on the same path, in much more detail later]

Hindu temple bears Islamic, Christian, Sikh symbols: Communal Harmony Project-19

The temple that bears symbols of four religions

It was a chance discovery when I spotted this unique temple in a dense locality.

It was a small temple, just like many shrines on road sides, in India. However, it had symbols of all religions on the front as well as side walls.

As there was heavy traffic on the road and it was risky to suddenly stop the vehicle, I went ahead and then came back from the next traffic intersection, to have a close look at the 'Mandir'.

There is no need for any person who is a caretaker at a shrine to put up signs of other faiths. It doesn't lead to more collection in the 'donation box' and no community would generously laud the temple-administration for such a step.

It was purely a goodwill gesture. I met the priest. He introduced himself as Om Sai Ram, rather than his original name, which he uses only in official documents now. For him, all faiths are the same. The locality is predominantly Hindu [65%] and has around 35% Muslims, however, there is hardly any Christian or Sikh population.

The temple authorities didn't do it to please followers of other faiths. No one objected when Islamic crescent and cross were painted on the walls along with Om. There was a 'trishul' on other other side and a black stone that bore the words 'Shani Dev'. I was offered water.

The Saffron-robed pandit ji told me enthusiastically about the events held at the temple and how he is supported by everyone.

Some other people also came when they saw us talking. Unfortunately, my photographer friend was in a hurry, and we left, after exchanging our telephone numbers.

Fascinating, isn't it! But that's India. At every nook and corner, mostly in dense localities and 'bastis', if you wander, you find such amazing stories of communal harmony scattered all around. 

Hindus hosting 'iftar' for fasting Muslims, wishing them on Ramzan and vice versa: Communal Harmony Project-18

Secularism is practiced on street in India

So many banners with messages of communal harmony are seen on the streets in India. We take them for granted and often don't pay attention to the hoardings on road sides.

Till a few weeks ago, I was spotting Muslims welcoming the 'Kanwad' yatras. 

There were banners congratulating Hindus on Janmashtami. Now, I see Hindus putting up banners, wishing Muslims Happy Ramzan and even Id.

Often due to hurry to reach office or home, one fails to take a snap.

Besides, if there is traffic on the road, its tough for a person who doesn't look like a professional photographer.

The reason I consider these gestures important, is because it shows close bonds between Hindus and Muslims on the ground.

These people are not politicians who organise Devi Jagran or Roza-Iftaar parties with a purpose. They don't do it for getting votes. For them its goodwill, harmony and a feeling of brotherhood for their neighbour with whom they have relations over decades and even for generations. Either its 'iftaar' or Muslims welcoming 'Kanwariyas', it all symbolises our strong cohesiveness.

This is important, as on internet, particularly, Twitter and Facebook, you find a different world. Communal trolls, opinionated guys who talk of secularism as they get it from books or those patronising the ordinary Hindus & Muslims about harmony.

'Ramzan ki tah-e-dil se mubarakbaad'

Just have a look at the banner here. It is from Durga Utsav Samiti, a committee that organises the religious and cultural programmes during Durgotsava celebration.

But, they express solidarity with Muslim brethren. They put up 786 & crescent [moon] on their banner. Is it a small thing? NO.

In fact, the team that goes for collection includes Muslims also. And all Muslim households give 'chanda' generously. This happens in mixed localities where holding a function or festival of one community is considered important for all, and its a matter of prestige of mohalla.

Ghettoisation kills this beautiful aspect of Indian culture. In every city, we still have, fortunately, innumerable mixed colonies. It is these people who know and practice secularism on the street. For them religious differences and diversity are something to cheer and celebrate.

For posts on similar topic on this blog. Click HERE & HERE

[Harmony exists all around us but is often ignored. Instead, stories of hate, discord and communalism get spread easily.

There are a million examples in our daily lives across India but they don't get promoted, hence, news of hate and discord gets heard more. Let's change it, now. This is a small attempt to change it through Communal Harmony Project]

For reading similar reports on this blog, Click the link HERE and also find out more about Communal Harmony Project

#communalharmony #communalharmonyproject #india

The Dying Banyan: Novel explores Hindu-Muslim relationship, Communal fault lines in India

Shams Ur Rehman Alavi

Manzoor Ahtesham's novel 'Sukha Bargad' was translated in English sometime back.

I read the novel five years ago and I must say that it is one of the best novels written on Hindu-Muslims relations in this country.

The novel tells the story of a middle-class Muslim family and its struggles in the wake of partition. At times the novel truly astonishes the reader.

The protagonist is a girl, Rashida, [and her brother Suhail] and it is through her eyes that the novelist takes you through the fault lines in the society.

Rashida's father is a liberal man, a humanist with strong ideas about human values, someone who sends his children including the daughter to a co-ed school.

His children are aware that their father, a lawyer, isn't liked by elders of the community because of his unbending views and for his being a bit too outspoken. 

It is because of his thoughts on religion [and religiosity] and his uncompromising views. One day the son confronts the father, "I heard you ate pork once after a bet with friends". The answer is indeed revealing. There are interesting dialogues and arguments.

The siblings are growing up in the decade of sixties. The novel is set in Bhopal. The era of princely state has ended. The City though retains Muslim-dominated character [for a few more decades] is now undergoing a fast change. The novel deals with communalism, joblessness and insecurities.

If you have read the novel, then you can never forget the discussions between Suhail and his friend, and views of the protagonist who falls in love with her brother's friend. Almost every issue, either its right-wing Hindus' questioning Muslim's patriotism or a section of Muslims' complaining of persecution and bias, is dealt with here.

Its not a complex novel. Suhail remains jobless, turns alcoholic, later seeks refuge with a clever  politician. Rashida remains unmarried. People who had migrated to America and Pakistan, return occasionally, with their own issues.

Along side, there are wars with China and Pakistan, later the creation of Bangladesh. Events in Pakistan, particularly, Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto's execution, and the religiosity during Zia Ul Haq's regime. Though this has been the subject of some other novels, Sukha Bargad hooks the reader.

Originally published in Hindi 

Manzoor Ahtesham had originally written it in Hindi. This was a rare thing, as mostly Muslim authors in those days wrote in Urdu.

Ahtesham has treated the subject well and the reader never gets bored. Besides, it keeps you in a reflective mode.

The description, either its about the children's growing up years, Rashida [a Muslim girl's] romantic involvement with the Hindu boy Vijay, later her job at the radio station and the desolate phase, is enchanting. The novel moves at a steady pace.

In fact, the characters appear quite close to you. Perhaps, lot of it is from the writer's personal experience, and as a result, the book becomes a major novel on Indian Muslims.

From regionalism to sectarianism, Shia-Sunni conflict, it deals with a host of issues, subtly. The book ends somewhere in the aftermath of Jamshedpur riots where a famous litterateur was killed in a riot. A must-read, which you will thoroughly enjoy.

Read similar posts on this blog and reviews of major literary works on Indian Muslims AT THIS LINK

[As far as I knew, the author spells his name as Manzoor Ahtesham, but the cover of the translated book reads as 'Ehtesham'.]

Salvation of Soul: 'Pind Daan' for MF Husain, Indian-Pakistani writers performed as per Vedic rituals in Gaya

Pind-daan: Hindu rituals for salvation performed in Gaya

Just the other day, I read a news that the 'Pind-daan' ceremony for the famous painter late MF Husain was performed at Gaya in Bihar.

This was indeed surprising. After all, the furore over his controversial paintings had even upset many liberals.

Umpteen cases were filed against him, forcing him to self-imposed exile. But now a social organisation led by Mr Suresh Narayan offered the Hindu ritual for the salvation of his soul, apart from others.


Narayan also performed performed the 'pind-daan' for Pakistani journalist Syed Saleem Shahzad, famous Hindustani classical singer Pt Bhimsen Joshi, eminent writer Kanhaiya Lal Nandan, Swami Nigamananda and a few others.

Social activists performed the rites under the guidance of Swami Raghavacharyaji Maharaj. Narayan said that the legendary figures who departed from us, had given society a lot, and the onus was on the people to ensure that they live in peace after death also.

Every year, the social organisation performs the rituals for salvation of souls of eminent persons who die apart from those killed in tragedies and mishaps. The rituals were held at Devghat on the banks of Phalgu river in Gaya district of Bihar.

Cynics may easily dismiss it. But the fact that despite all opposition to the famed artist, holding the ceremony for a Muslim person as per Vedic rites, is surely a courageous job. There is definitely a message, which the organisation, sends here. It's about humanity, it's the intrinsic Indian secularism, it's about their belief in composite culture.

If one seeks publicity, there are myriad ways. There is no dearth of celebrities who pass away ever year, even controversial one. But remembering a person like MF Husain, knowing well that it can raise heckles of the right-wing groups, along with other personalities is laudable.

The 'Pind-daan' is a Hindu ritual for salvation of the deceased's soul. As per Vedic beliefs, even after death the soul may retain its materialistic links. In this body less state, the soul suffers and undergoes pain until it gets another body.

It is said that after this ritual, the cycle of birth & death ends and the soul gets salvation or eternal peace. Gaya is considered one of the holiest places and every year innumerable people reach here for the pind-daan of their ancestors during the Pitr Paksh.

Ganesha photo on Muslim couple's wedding invitation card: Communal Harmony Project-17

If a Muslim family gets a marriage invitation card published in Hindi, it may seem uncommon but not rare. However, Gulzar's marriage invitation card exactly looked like a Hindu family's wedding card.

It not only had a design featuring Lord Ganesha but the language and the use of Sanskrit terms made it look distinct. That was the reason this card raised eyebrows.

Many people lauded the spirit while some didn't approve of the change. The marriage occurred sometime back in Mandsaur, which is situated in Western Madhya Pradesh on the border of Rajasthan.

Gulzar, a labourer, was married to Najma Bi. When he was asked by media persons, he said that he got his card printed in Hindi because most of his friends were Hindu and he wanted to send a message of communal harmony.

Gulzar's father Ismail said that he had no objection to his son's plan to invite his friends as per their culture and traditions. The terms like 'aamantran', 'chiranjivi' and 'mangal parinay' and other ceremonies were also in accordance with the local Hindu customs.

It is no rule but generally Indian Muslims [except in Kerala & some other states) get marriage invitation cards printed in Urdu. The upper middle class and the middle class Muslims often gets the cards printed in both English and Urdu.

Though I have seen some wedding cards in Hindi also [particularly in recent years in North India] anguage remains Urdu though the script is 'devnagari'.

While Hindus overwhelming go to mazaars and dargahs of Sufi saints, several Muslim youths also participate in Hindu events and help organising the programmes during Ganeshotsava and Holi-Diwali celebrations, which reflects the communal harmony in Indian society.

Now see and read about a Hindu family's wedding invitation card in URDU at this LINK.

[Harmony exists all around us but is often ignored. Instead, stories of hate, discord and communalism get spread easily.

There are a million examples in our daily lives across India but they don't get promoted, hence, news of hate and discord gets heard more. Let's change it, now. This is a small attempt to change it through Communal Harmony Project]

For reading similar reports on this blog, Click the link HERE and also find out more about Communal Harmony Project

#communalharmony #communalharmonyproject #india

A mosque that briefly turns temple every year: Communal Harmony Project-15

It's unbelievable but true. There exists a mosque where the idol of Hindu god is kept once every year for a period of ten days with no communal disturbance ever in the last three decades.

Right now all eyes are focused on Ayodhya, ahead of the verdict over the Ram Temple-Babri Masjid controversy.

But, on the other hand we have such shining examples of communal harmony, as reported by journalist Chandan Haygunde.

He writes about Gotkhindi town in Maharashtra's Sangli district gives an indication about the unique diversity of the country as also the fact that how far the common man can go in terms of being liberal and accomodating for others.

By any standards the Muslims of Gotkhindi have gone out of the way in search of coexistence and amity. The twon has a population of 12,000 and just 2.5% population is Muslim.

The tradition began over three decades back when rains suddenly came and the idol of Lord Ganesha were kept in open. It was suggested to keep the idols in the mosque for the period. Even though it goes against the monatheistic beliefs, Muslims obliged and the practice continues to this day.

Haygunde must be congratulated for the brilliant report, 'At Peace' published in Indian Express. The story can be interpreted in many ways but it is just once story. There are tens of thousands of stories of harmony by Hindus and Muslims [& other communities], unbelievable gestures that have not been told or properly publicised.

As a result of exaggerated reporting of the Ram Mandir-Babri Masjid dispute, an image of perpetual Hindu-Muslim conflict was formed in the minds of citizens, which hurt the integrity as also caused incalculable damage to the society. [Photo by Hansraj Patil]

[Harmony exists all around us but is often ignored. Instead, stories of hate, discord and communalism get spread easily.

There are a million examples in our daily lives across India but they don't get promoted, hence, news of hate and discord gets heard more. Let's change it, now. This is a small attempt to change it through Communal Harmony Project]

For reading similar reports on this blog, Click the link HERE and also find out more about Communal Harmony Project

#communalharmony #communalharmonyproject #india

Hindu-Muslim just like Ram & Laxman, says Shankaracharya: Communal Harmony Project-14

When the Shankaracharya and Imams meet, the event should get due attention and media coverage.

Especially, when both sides join hands for the society, unlike politicians who bring Sants or Ulema for political mileage.

The Shankaracharya, Jayendra Saraswati, said that Hindus and Muslims in India have always been like Lord Rama and Laxman and the distance that came up between the communities in the last couple of decades must be bridged back again.

"The mothers of Ram and Laxman were different [Kaushalya and Sumitra], yet the love among Dashrath's sons was unparalleled while Bali and Sugriv were born to the same mother but were enemies", he said referring to Hindu epic Ramayana.

Muftis, Qazis and other Ulema honoured Shankaracharya. Imam Organisation office-bearers said that all issues can be sorted out if religious leaders and community members come together for discussion rather than letting politicians take charge. Sanskrit mantras were chanted along with echos of Allah-O-Akbar in the same function.

All this may be dismissed as rhetoric but the truth is that the mainstream Hindu leaders like Shankaracharyas never got swayed by the right-wing political movements including the Hindutva wave. Else the frenzy created in the 80s-90s may have acquired another level.

It is to their credit, just like some of the major Islamic seminaries who remained calm during the movement. The speakers urged the gathering to revive the ganga-jumni culture and celebrate each others' festivals. The era when Hindus made tazias and Muslims helped in making the Dol, should be recreated.

One of the Shankaracharya's trust in Ayodhya is working for the benefit of Muslims also. He announced that another trust would be soon established to help unemployed Muslim youths through vocational training and assistance for entrepreneurship.

Even cynics must accept that such events do send a message to members of both communities. Jayendra Saraswati is the head of Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham in Tamil Nadu. The event was organised to mark his 75th birthday.

[Harmony exists all around us but is often ignored. Instead, stories of hate, discord and communalism get spread easily.

There are a million examples in our daily lives across India but they don't get promoted, hence, news of hate and discord gets heard more. Let's change it, now. This is a small attempt to change it through Communal Harmony Project]

For reading similar reports on this blog, Click the link HERE and also find out more about Communal Harmony Project

#communalharmony #communalharmonyproject #india

The Horse's Grave in India: GhoRay ki Mazaar, Guess Where?

The horse's grave in Hyderabad, Deccan

Have you heard about this grave? The mazaar of the horse is not too well-known but once in a while one does hear about it from somewhere.

Though such graves are not common but I have seen the graves of elephants and heard about mazaars of parrots and cats in the past. Still, this one is slightly different.

Here the grave has the horse-shape structure [termed ghoDaa or ghoRaa] built in the midst of the mazaar. At many places where Sufi saints passed way, the local residents also built the mazaar of their pet animals when they later died.

But they are plane platforms with no image. This one is clearly an idol and may raise the heckles of those who fume at the sight of even the dargaahs and mazaars of genuine saints, let alone a mere animal!

When even the normals mazaars are being considered symbols of idolatry by a growing number of Muslims, what will remain of a poor horse. Interestingly, the mazaar is painted green and has a Muslim-ness around it, unlike the Hindu samadhi.

A local resident tells me that this particular horse was a buzurg [perhaps he meant saintly]. Another person said that it was a saint's horse which died here and was laid to rest but couldn't tell anything about the saint. May be I need to do more research.

Whatever. Someone does the upkeep and the flags that aflutter don't appear too old. Must be someone cleans the premises also on a regular basis. These are all examples of the unique cultural and religious fusion of Hinduism, Islam and local faith, and almost in every city you find something that represents neither of the religion or has ingredient of both of them.