In the Capital, Eid is meant for all
The answer to hatred is love. That is what Yashpal Saxena (father of Ankit Saxena, who was murdered by the parents of the Muslim girl he was in a relationship with, in Delhi, in February this year) did this Ramzan. He organised an iftar party at his residence to spread the message of communal harmony and peace. Saxena is not the only one. There are many non-Muslims in DelhiNCR who either fast in the holy month of Ramzan or organise iftar for Muslims. In fact, inter-faith iftar parties have been quite popular.
Sardar Mangal, a shop owner in Sadar Bazaar market, distributes food during the whole month of Ramzan. He says, “I’m a human first. Caste and creed come later. To help my brothers, I provide iftar on the premises of Jama Masjid every evening. I also put a stall of water and dates near my shop so that our Muslim brothers can break their fast. I feel content and happy doing this. I am hoping to also celebrate Eid with everyone.”
There are many in Old Delhi who make such arrangements. Anil Bindi Vale, who has a shop in Khurshid Market near Jama Masjid, also distributes water and food packets.
Zia Qureshi, member of Nagrik Suraksha Samiti, Sadar Bazaar, says, “The purpose is to showcase the affinity among us. This happens every year and we feel like a part of each other’s life. They celebrate Eid and we celebrate Diwali with them. Festivals are for all. A lot of non-Muslims also offer namaz with us in the morning. Some of them even know the verses and this is the beauty of India.”
People outside Old Delhi have shown solidarity, too. Enaya Bali, a Hindu by religion, observed roza for 10 days. She says, “I wanted to know how it feels, and it turned out to be amazing. I tried to follow the customs associated with Ramzan, such as reading the iftar dua before breaking the fast, and I found peace in them.”