5 days ago
Faith beyond labels: Muslims join Guru Purnima rituals in Kashi
Varanasi: A remarkable display of India's cultural harmony unfolded at Kashi's Patalpuri Math of the Ramanandi sect during Guru Purnima, which witnessed Muslim women conducting aarti of Jagadguru Balak Devacharya Ji Maharaj, the head of Patalpuri Math, while Muslim men paid their respects by presenting him with a Ramnami angavastram.
On the occasion, devotees transcended religious and caste barriers to honour their spiritual mentors. The sacred relationship between teachers and students was celebrated with great reverence. At Patalpuri Math, a significant event unfolded as it showcased India's rich guru heritage. The ceremony witnessed hundreds of Muslim followers accepting spiritual initiation and making solemn commitments to serve the nation.
Following their initiation, Shahabuddin, Muzammil, Firoz, Afroz, Sultan, Nagina, and Shamsunisha experienced immense joy. Shahabuddin expressed, "Our ancestors were followers of Rampanth and adherents of this Math. Even though our mode of worship has changed, our ancestors, tradition, blood and culture cannot change." One of the followers Naushad Ahmed emphasised that showing respect towards the guru seat represents an integral aspect of Indian culture.
He further explained that true knowledge is attainable only through a guru, and where knowledge prevails, discrimination ceases to exist.
Nazneen Ansari, who leads the Muslim Mahila Foundation, expressed that global peace is achievable solely through following Ram's principles. She emphasised that reaching Ram requires guidance from a guru, as only a spiritual mentor can guide one from ignorance to enlightenment.
She highlighted that contemporary society requires a guru who possesses the capability to eliminate hatred, violence, hostility, discrimination and pride.
She concluded that such a spiritual guide is essential for the nation's preservation.
The spiritual leader also initiated tribal children and assigned them the duty of cultural propagation. Additionally, he encouraged the Muslim community to disseminate India's rich heritage worldwide whilst maintaining their ancestral connections.
