The initiative by Muslim families has been acknowledged by the Hindu community. Many Hindus see it as a symbol of interfaith cooperation.
Team Clarion
HARIDWAR – Amidst the ongoing controversy surrounding the “nameplate” order for the Kanwar Yatra, a notable display of unity continues in Haridwar, where Muslim families craft the Kanwars used by Shiva devotees. This tradition highlights the region’s complex interfaith dynamics.
The Kanwar Yatra, beginning in Haridwar, sees lakhs of Shiva devotees coming to collect sacred Ganges water. For years, Muslim families in Haridwar have been crafting these Kanwars, dedicating months to this laborious task.
Several months before the Kanwar Yatra, members of the Muslim community start preparing the Kanwars. This work involves entire families, with everyone from elders to women and children contributing. One Kanwar artisan remarked, “We have been doing this since childhood. While it may not be seen as noble within our faith, it is a tradition we have continued out of necessity.”
This initiative by Muslim families has been acknowledged by the Hindu community, with many appreciating the craftsmanship and seeing it as a symbol of interfaith cooperation. “There is no discrimination here between Hindus and Muslims. We are all brothers. We have been doing this since childhood,” said another artisan.
However, the controversy over the “nameplate” order issued by the Uttar Pradesh government has added tension. The order mandates food stalls, dhabas, and hotels along the Kanwar Yatra route to display the names of their owners, a move widely criticised by political figures and opposition parties.
All India Majlis-e Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) President Asaduddin Owaisi condemned the order, stating, “This reflects the deep-seated prejudice against Muslims in India. Such measures foster division and discrimination.”
Rajya Sabha member Kapil Sibal also criticised the move, questioning its implications for national unity. “Instructing food stalls, dhabas, and hotel owners on the Kanwar Yatra route to reveal their names is divisive. It threatens to divide the country further,” Sibal remarked.
Communist Party of India (Marxist) leader Brinda Karat likened the order to discriminatory practices of the past. “The government is undermining the Constitution with such orders. This humiliates an entire community and divides society. Such actions are reminiscent of the Hitler era,” Karat stated.
Despite the controversy and the varying perspectives within the Muslim community, the artisans in Haridwar continue their work, balancing tradition, economic necessity, and interfaith dynamics. This ongoing situation underscores the complexities and challenges faced by communities striving to maintain their livelihoods and cultural practices in an increasingly polarised environment.
