While country seems to be reeling from growing instances of religious intolerance, two Muslim youth of Lucknow University are setting a unique example of harmony and mutual trust.
Sahaduddin Ahmed alias Sameer, a close relative of Pram Vir Chakra winner Abdul Hamid and his friend Abdul Kalim observed fast on the first day of Navratri. The two will also observe fast on the last day, a national daily reported.
“If Hindus and Muslims start celebrating festivals together, there will never be a Dadri. If I keep rozas, I also observe fast on Navratri. In my village, Hindu festivals Holi and Diwali begins from our house. On every Bada Mangal, I organize bhandharas,” said Sameer.
It comes amid raging communal tension over the killing of Mohammed Akhlaq in Bisara village in Dadri over suspicion that he had beef at his house, a suspicion that has been proved wrong after a forensic test at the instance of the state police.
Sahaduddin’s grandfather Bashir Ahmed and Param Vir Chakra winner Hamid were brothers and used to live next door in Ghazipur, Uttar Pradesh.
Sahaduddin said he drew inspiration from Rasloon Bibi (wife of Hamid).”Dadi always said, unless we starting respecting each other’s religions, we will not be united.”
Sahaduddin and his friend Abdul, who is a second year BA Honours student at Lucknow University, distributed fruits and special-food consumed during the festival to everyone. They also recited the holy durga chalisa and did arti, the daily reported.
At a time when the nation is plagued by communalism, here is a story that sets an example of communal harmony and goodwill for all Indians.