Despite ongoing communal tensions, Muslims reciprocated the act by showering rose petals on the rallyists. Viral photos of the floral tribute have earned praise across communities and social media
SAMBHAL – At a time when communal tensions have gripped parts of the country, a remarkable act of unity and respect has emerged from Sambhal, a Muslim-majority area in western Uttar Pradesh, which was recently rocked by violence.
On the occasion of Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar’s birth anniversary, a vibrant procession organised in the Sadar Kotwali area came to a respectful halt during azaan, the Islamic call to prayer. The move by the Ambedkar Jayanti committee, which included stopping the loud DJs and bands, has drawn widespread admiration.
It happened as the procession entered the Kotpurvi locality, known for its large Muslim population. Upon hearing the azaan the organisers voluntarily stopped the rally. The decision was not just respected but welcomed by local Muslims, who later responded by showering rose petals on the passing procession as a gesture of goodwill.
Locals say the moment stood in stark contrast to the charged environment created by the communal violence in November last year.
The image of Muslims and Dalits showing mutual respect has sparked a wave of appreciation online, even as political leaders continue to fuel divisions for electoral gains.
Mohammad Kaleem, a resident of Kotpurvi, told reporters, ‘When the procession stopped for the azaan, it touched our hearts. After azaan was over, we wanted to return that respect – so we showered flowers on them as a small token of love.’
Speaking to Clarion India, Rajesh Gautam, a member of the Ambedkar Jayanti procession committee, said, “We believe in Babasaheb’s dream of equality and brotherhood. This small gesture was our way of honouring both our Constitution and our shared humanity.”
This act of communal harmony comes at a time when groups aligned with Hindutva ideologies such as the BJP, RSS, and ABVP have been accused of fuelling hatred, particularly against Muslims and Dalits. In many parts of India, celebrations of Ambedkar Jayanti are often met with hostility, especially from casteist elements who feel threatened by Ambedkar’s legacy of social justice.
Observers say the incident in Sambhal has provided a much-needed reminder that religious and caste harmony is not only possible but thriving in local communities—despite the divisive rhetoric promoted by certain right-wing groups.
A local schoolteacher, Rukhsana Begum, said, “We see politicians trying to divide us on a daily basis. But on the ground, common people still respect each other. This event proved that again.”
Photos and videos of the incident have gone viral on social media, with users praising both the Muslim community and the procession organisers. Several commentators pointed out that this quiet show of solidarity was more powerful than many political speeches.
Sociologist Dr Shabnam Ansari commented, “In a time when minorities are being vilified in many corners of India, this kind of incident serves as a moral compass. It’s a rejection of communal politics and a celebration of secular values.”
Even amid the social media noise often dominated by hate campaigns and misinformation, this act of kindness stood out. Hashtags like #SambhalUnity and #RealIndia trended on various platforms for hours.
Dr Ambedkar, the architect of the Indian Constitution, dedicated his life to ensuring equal rights for all, especially for the marginalised Dalit community. His vision of fraternity – a key pillar of the Constitution – was made visible on the streets of Sambhal that day.
Social worker and Dalit rights advocate Shyamlal Jatav stated, ‘Babasaheb always spoke about brotherhood and unity beyond caste and religion. What happened in Sambhal is a living tribute to his ideals. This is what the Constitution stands for – not the hate being spread by certain political outfits.’
While ordinary citizens hailed the event, it’s worth noting the conspicuous silence from some political leaders, particularly those affiliated with the ruling party. Neither the BJP nor its allied groups publicly acknowledged the incident, perhaps because it doesn’t align with their usual narrative of division.
Meanwhile, political workers from the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), Samajwadi Party (SP), Congress, and Bhim Army were present at various Ambedkar Jayanti events across the state, reiterating their commitment to social justice and inclusion.
“This was not just a peaceful event,” said one Bhim Army activist who requested anonymity. “It was a political statement that we reject the politics of hate. Dalits and Muslims have suffered the most under Hindutva regimes. Our unity is our strength,” he said.
