The village unites Hindus and Muslims through shared heritage, Sufi teachings, and a legacy of peace
Team Clarion
PATNA – In the heart of Bihar’s Nalanda district lies Gilani village, a symbol of communal harmony. Named after Hazrat Sheikh Abdul Qadir Gilani, a revered Sufi saint from Iran, the village is a testament to the unity between Hindus and Muslims, who proudly share the surname “Gilani” (or “Jilani”).
The village’s full name, Muhiuddin Gilanipur, honours Hazrat Gilani, whose teachings of love and compassion still resonate today. “The name ‘Gilani’ comes from the saint’s titles and has become our identity,” says Syed Amjad Hussain, a Sufi scholar from Bihar.
The saint’s message of inclusivity attracted followers from all backgrounds. Over time, some of his early disciples settled in India and adopted “Gilani” as their surname. Today, 5,000 residents, including Hindus and Muslims from various communities, proudly carry the name.
Gilani is home to a mosque, a temple, and a madrasa that coexist peacefully. Remarkably, the village has never witnessed sectarian violence. “Our family has lived here since independence,” says Pradeep Gilani, a Hindu resident. “Hindus and Muslims live with love and respect, celebrating all festivals together.”
Eid, Diwali, and Holi are celebrated with equal fervour by the villagers. “The life of a Gilani blends cultural and religious practices,” adds Shahnawaz Anwar, a teacher at Madrasa Islamia in Gilani. The unity and mutual respect displayed during these celebrations inspire younger generations to cherish their shared heritage.
Gilani is also the birthplace of Deobandi scholar Maulana Manazir Ahsan Gilani, whose legacy continues to inspire the community. However, despite the village’s historical significance, it faces challenges such as the migration of notable families, leaving behind many residents from low-income backgrounds.
“Although Maulana Manazir Ahsan Gilani hailed from here, Islamic education has not fully reached the village,” says Anwar. Yet, villagers take pride in identifying as residents of the saint’s village when visiting other cities.
The establishment of Madrasa Islamia Gilani by Haji Wajihuddin Gilani has helped preserve the village’s educational and cultural roots. It remains a cornerstone of the community’s commitment to education.
The surname “Gilani” represents more than family ties; it is a symbol of unity and shared values. “Outsiders are surprised by this practice, but for us, it represents our collective heritage,” says Pradeep Gilani. This tradition reflects the inclusive spirit rooted in the teachings of Hazrat Gilani.
Many Gilani residents have excelled in fields like medicine, engineering, and literature, achieving recognition both in India and abroad. Their success stories serve as inspiration for the younger generation to excel while staying connected to their roots.
In a world often divided by sectarian differences, Gilani stands as a beacon of unity. The village’s residents continue to uphold the saint’s message of inclusivity and respect. “Gilani shows that despite our differences, we can live together in peace,” says Shahnawaz Anwar. “It’s not just an ideal here; it’s a way of life.”
