06, Apr 2023 | CJP Team

Children have spread the message of communal harmony and demonstrated that the spirit of plurality is still present in India at a time when hatred and religious division are on the rise. Since the beginning of Ramadan, students of various faiths have been organising Iftar for their Muslim friends in Bidar, Karnataka. On a daily basis, students at the Shaheen Group of institutions prepare plates of fruits, pakodas, and Rooh Afza, among other things. While the Muslim students break their fast, their non-Muslim classmates serve them food and beverages.

A Hindu student stated that they prepare Iftar for their Muslim friends every day. “We find peace by doing this, and we also want to be a part of Ramadan,” she said, adding that she is happy to see such an environment, as reported by MuslimMirror. The Iftar fosters a sense of community and friendship among students of various faiths, emphasizing the importance of mutual respect and understanding between people of different faiths and cultures.

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!

Another student stated that she was experiencing Ramadan for the first time in her life. “I feel very fortunate to be able to spend time helping my Muslim friends with Iftar,” she said, adding that the atmosphere at the Iftar promotes unity, as per the MuslimMirror.

According to Dr. Abdul Qadeer, founder of the Shaheen Group of Institutions, up to 4500 people attend the Iftar every day.

“Every day, Muslim and non-Muslim students on our campus observe the Iftar; while Muslims break their fast, non-Muslim students serve them.” According to Qader, this sends out messages of peace and love. He expressed his hope that these students will contribute to the betterment of society and the nation.

Qader further stated that students promote mutual respect, understanding, and tolerance by observing iftar together, regardless of religious or cultural differences. Serving food and drinks to their Muslim classmates reinforces the idea of communal harmony and emphasizes the importance of empathy and kindness in creating a welcoming and inclusive environment, the MuslimMirror reported.

Image Courtesy: muslimmirror.com

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