Bechan Baba ensures unity and serenity at Anarwali Masjid, upholding family legacy
Mohammad Alamullah | Clarion India
NEW DELHI — In the heart of Varanasi, amidst the ancient alleys resonating with prayers and rituals, Bechan Baba stands as a symbol of communal harmony. For over four decades, the 72-year-old Hindu caretaker has devoted his life to the upkeep of Anaar Wali Masjid, a centuries-old place of worship nestled in the Chaukhamba area of the city.
Chaukhamba, once renowned for the 14th-15th century Chaurasi Khamba Masjid, has witnessed demographic shifts over the years. While the area became predominantly Hindu, the mosque persisted quietly, its history obscured by time but preserved by families like Bechan’s.
Bechan Baba, now in his third generation of caretaking, not only maintains the mosque but ensures that the call to prayer, the azan, resonates punctually five times a day. “I have been taking care of this mosque for 45 years,” Bechan affirms, seated near the entrance on stones laid centuries ago. “My father started here, and it has been my duty since childhood.”
His commitment extends beyond routine maintenance; it embodies a profound ethos of unity. “There is only one God for everyone,” Bechan reflects over a cup of masala chai, “just different names — whether Ishwar or Allah, it is the same.” In a city often polarised by religious tensions, Bechan’s steadfast dedication to the mosque serves as a poignant reminder of coexistence.
The mosque, adorned with medieval pillars and a serene dargah, welcomes visitors of all faiths seeking solace amidst Varanasi’s spiritual tapestry. “All five prayers are offered here,” Bechan notes, highlighting its inclusive spirit amid growing local population.
As Varanasi grapples with recent religious disputes, including the Gyanvapi mosque controversy, Bechan remains resolute. “Whatever happens elsewhere,” he asserts, gesturing towards the nearby Gopal Mandir, “here, there is no room for hatred. Hindus and Muslims pray together peacefully.”
Looking ahead, Bechan hopes his sons will inherit his legacy of maintaining the mosque. “First my ancestors, then I, and now my sons — it’s our family heritage,” he affirms, emphasising continuity in service and unity.
In a city steeped in spirituality, Bechan Baba’s unwavering dedication to Anarwali Masjid not only preserves its physical sanctity but also nurtures a timeless message of harmony and brotherhood.
