Stories of unity in diversity: Inspiring narratives highlight communal harmony amidst today’s polarised world Are all ordinary Indians hostile to interfaith interactions? These incidents serve as poignant reminders that they are not
12, Jan 2024 | CJP Team
Mumbai, Maharashtra
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.
Amidst the systematic hate leading to growing anger and despair, it is important to showcase a lived reality of camaraderie, equality and sharing which is the bedrock of the Indian Constitution and secularism. That way we not only hold on to every thread of hope, but effectively project these narratives, lest we lose our will to fight the good fight. As part of our #EverydayHarmony series, CJP brings you instances where Indians share and care, every single day… our food, our businesses, our homes and our friendships. This instances show how we Indians continue to reject hateful and divisive agendas even while street violence and social media are used as part of a sinister, hate-filled political agenda to tell us otherwise. Let’s reinforce India’s everyday lived reality, and through that collectively and aggressively, uphold and defend a unique pluralism, a diverse culture and truly secular values. Donate now to help us combat hate and prejudice!
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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