In a powerful demonstration of respect for others, the Paswan family in Dumrawan village continues to maintain and safeguard the mosque
Mohammad Alamullah | Clarion India
NEW DELHI – As communal tensions often dominate the headlines, a remarkable story of unity and brotherhood emerges from the village of Dumrawan in Bihar’s Nalanda district. In this village, known for its peaceful coexistence, a Hindu family is upholding a century-old tradition by caring for a 100-year-old mosque, an act that is a beacon of hope in an increasingly polarised society.
The mosque, located in the heart of Dumrawan village, has long been a symbol of communal harmony. The responsibility of maintaining the mosque was first taken up by Anil Paswan’s grandfather, who ensured that the place of worship, despite a declining Muslim population in the area, was preserved and protected. After the death of his grandfather, Anil stepped up to continue this legacy.
Anil, who was deeply influenced by his grandfather’s commitment, shared his memories of growing up in a household that took pride in looking after the mosque. “As a child, I would accompany my grandfather to clean the mosque. It was always a sacred duty for us, and it has remained that way,” said Anil. “Despite the challenges, we have kept our promise. Not a single stone or brick from the mosque has been taken away by any Hindu family in this village.”
One of the most striking aspects of this story is that no Muslim families are living in Dumrawan village today. Over the years, the Muslim population has gradually migrated to urban areas, leaving behind the mosque without caretakers. In this vacuum, it was Anil Paswan’s grandfather who took the initiative, and now Anil continues the work, ensuring that the mosque remains intact.
The mosque still stands tall, and five times a day, the azaan (call for prayers) echoes through the village, reverberating a message of unity. Despite there being no Muslims in the village, the practice of azaan at the mosque continues with the support of local Hindu families who ensure that the call to prayer is respected.
Every year, during the two Eid festivals, when Muslim families return to the village to offer prayers at the mosque, Anil’s family goes above and beyond to show hospitality. “When the Muslims come to pray, we make arrangements for them, preparing food, including vermicelli, and offering them a warm welcome,” Anil explained.
Anil’s family may not be in the best financial condition, but their commitment to maintaining the mosque is unwavering. His wife, speaking on their financial struggles, said, “Right now, we are not financially stable. My son is still studying, but once he completes his education, we will repair the mosque and ensure it remains in good condition.”
Anil’s efforts, however, are not without challenges. “We have limited resources. But the sense of responsibility my grandfather instilled in me is more important than anything else. This mosque is not just a place of worship, it’s a symbol of the unity we need more than ever,” he shared.
Anil’s family has carried the torch of communal harmony. Villagers speak highly of this act of dedication, considering it an example of the Ganga-Jamuni Tehzeeb – a term that encapsulates the unique cultural blend of Hindu-Muslim unity in India.
One local villager, speaking on condition of anonymity, remarked: “The mosque has stood here for over a century. When the Muslim families moved away, we feared it would be forgotten. But Anil Paswan and his family have kept it alive. It’s rare to see such dedication in today’s world.”
The mosque also features a well within its compound, an essential part of the mosque’s heritage. The water from this well is used by worshippers for wudu, the ritual of washing before prayers. This well, too, has been maintained by Anil’s family, ensuring that all visitors have access to clean water for their religious practices.
“This well has been a source of comfort for us and the worshippers. It is important to us that people can perform their prayers with dignity, even though they come from distant places,” Anil said with conviction.
In the current climate of rising religious intolerance and hate, Anil Paswan’s act of service shines like a beacon of hope. His commitment to the mosque, despite financial difficulties, speaks volumes about the power of humanity, above all religious divides.
The act of caring for the mosque serves as a reminder of the essence of Indian culture – one rooted in unity, tolerance, and shared responsibility. Anil’s story challenges the prevailing narrative of division and hatred, showing that love, respect, and community spirit can transcend religious boundaries.
“This is our tradition. This is what makes us who we are as a nation. It’s not about being Hindu or Muslim, it’s about caring for one another. We are all part of this land, and this mosque is part of that shared heritage,” Anil remarked, his voice filled with pride.
In an era where communalism often threatens the fabric of society, the Paswan family’s act of kindness serves as a powerful reminder of the Ganga-Jamuni Tehzeeb that has long been the hallmark of Indian culture. It is a story of hope, reminding us that, even in the darkest times, humanity can still shine through.
