It is not tricolour-waving mobs or slogan-chanting crowds that define patriotism. It is simple acts of service — like handing a glass of water to a thirsty pilgrim — that keep the soul of the nation alive
NEW DELHI – At a time when hate campaigns, polarising speeches, and mob-led violence try to break India’s plural fabric, a small but powerful story has emerged from Malegaon, a Muslim-majority city in the Nashik district of Maharashtra. It has again shown how Muslims and Hindus can live together in mutual respect and shared humanity.
Despite daily challenges and the rising temperature touching 40 degrees Celsius, Muslim residents of Malegaon stepped forward in a beautiful display of religious harmony during the recent Chaitra Utsav of Hindu goddess Saptashringi Devi. Every year, lakhs of Hindu devotees walk barefoot from different parts of Maharashtra to the temple atop the Saptashringi Garh. And every year, without fanfare, the Muslims of Malegaon come out in large numbers to serve them.
This year was no different. But the spirit of service by Malegaon’s Muslim youth left a lasting impression, and many are calling it a “lesson for the entire country.”
From Chalisgaon Choufli to Dabhadi, along the 12-kilometre route taken by the pilgrims, several stalls were set up to provide water and food. But what stood out was a particular water distribution stall in the scorching sun — managed entirely by young Muslim volunteers.
Businessman Muhammad Yasin, who has been leading this effort for over a decade, told Clarion India over the phone that they have seen the yatris since their childhood. “We always wanted to do something to help them. For the last 10 to 12 years, we have been distributing water during this yatra,” he said.
“Our religion teaches us to feed the hungry and give water to the thirsty. This is not just a service, it is our duty as human beings. Our team does everything to provide comfort to the yatris. I believe this is the true face of our Malegaon — unity, love, and service.”
Yasin also shared how festivals are celebrated jointly in the city. “Our Hindu friends come to our Eid celebrations, and we visit them during Diwali and Ganesh Chaturthi. This is our shared culture. This is what makes India beautiful. And this is what we must protect,” he said with pride.
In the Jaffar Nagar area, the story is no different. When the Rath Yatra — the sacred chariot of the goddess — passed through Muslim localities, locals not only welcomed it but also showered rose petals on the devotees. At every stop, Muslims distributed water, and sherbet, and offered warm smiles.
This welcoming gesture was led by a group called the All Party Organisation, which brings together community members across political and religious lines.
Aba Chaudhary, the Rath organiser from Sherpur, was moved by the response. “When the chariot passed through Muslim areas, the atmosphere was full of love. It was not a formality — it was from the heart. Rose petals were being showered at many points. Even some Muslim clerics walked with us in the procession. This is the real India. This is the culture we are proud of.”
He continued, “In this year’s Chaitra Utsav, you could see the love and brotherhood. I wish those who spread hate could come and witness this.”
Malegaon is often in the news for negative reasons — sometimes unfairly associated with extremism or communal tension. But the real story of this city lies in its day-to-day life, in its people, andin its continued efforts to uphold peace and unity.
Located on the banks of the Garhna and Musam rivers, Malegaon has a long history of communal harmony. It is a city where Hindus and Muslims not only coexist but actively support each other. Whether it is during Muharram or Navratri, both communities participate and show solidarity.
This unity is not limited to festivals. In times of flood, fire, or pandemic, both communities have always worked hand in hand. Even during the COVID-19 crisis, Malegaon’s Muslim doctors and volunteers earned praise for working around the clock to save lives — regardless of religion.
In today’s media landscape, positive stories of Muslims are often ignored or buried under a flood of negativity. While fringe elements within right-wing groups like the BJP, ABVP, and other Hindutva outfits continue to push hate-filled narratives, stories like Malegaon’s rarely find the spotlight they deserve.
Instead of acknowledging such peaceful gestures, some TV debates focus on manufactured outrage. As a result, the common man is misled, and entire communities are stereotyped.
But Malegaon’s people aren’t seeking media applause. Their actions speak louder than any primetime shouting match.
Locals say that the peace in Malegaon has been achieved through constant efforts — and it should not be disturbed by political propaganda. Many also warn that rising communal politics, especially from Hindutva-driven parties, is creating unnecessary tensions in otherwise peaceful regions.
Mohammad Irfan, a teacher from Malegaon, expressed his concern: “We want our next generation to grow up in peace. But the politics of hate is spoiling young minds. The government should support harmony, not divide people based on religion.”
He continued, “We must ask: who benefits when there is a riot? It’s never the common man. It’s always the political leaders who sit in their bungalows and give speeches. But it’s our homes and hearts that burn.”
At a time when lynchings, hate crimes, and open calls for violence have become disturbingly common in parts of the country, Malegaon offers a gentle but powerful reminder of what India truly stands for.
It is not tricolour-waving mobs or slogan-chanting crowds that define patriotism. It is simple acts of service — like handing a glass of water to a thirsty pilgrim — that keep the soul of the nation alive.
