Al Haqeeqa
The recent communal violence in Bahraich District of Uttar Pradesh has once again stirred the delicate fabric of India’s social unity. The unfortunate incidents that have emerged are not just a threat to law and order but also to the shared cultural ethos that has defined India for centuries. In moments like these, it is imperative for both Hindus and Muslims to reflect on their common past and remember the values that once bonded them together. The Indian subcontinent is home to a profound legacy of religious and cultural fusion. The term Ganga-Jamuni Tehzeeb, a symbol of the composite culture in Northern India, especially in the regions of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, encapsulates this spirit of harmony. It is a unique blend of Hindu and Muslim traditions, where festivals, practices, and rituals transcend religious boundaries. From celebrating Diwali and Eid together to the common respect for Sufi saints and Bhakti poets, the syncretic culture has thrived on coexistence and mutual respect. This ethos is not just about a shared past but it represents a vision for a future, where diversity is celebrated rather than seen as a cause of division. For centuries, Hindus and Muslims have lived together, sharing food, language, art and music, creating a rich cultural tapestry that has enriched both communities. It is this heritage that we must not forget, even in the face of conflict and tension.
In times of crisis, it is easy to let emotions take over. But we must remind ourselves that respect for each other’s religious beliefs is the foundation of peace and social harmony. Whether it is the reverence for temples or mosques, festivals, or rituals, every belief deserves respect. True faith lies in recognizing and valuing this diversity, not allowing it to be used as a tool for division. This respect extends beyond mere tolerance as it is about celebrating the other. Hindus and Muslims have always found ways to participate in each other’s religious and cultural celebrations. The Sufi traditions of revering Hindu deities in their poetry and the influence of Islamic architecture on Hindu temples are just a few examples of how intertwined these communities are. In Bahraich, a city associated with the famous Sufi saint Syed Salar Masud Ghazi, this legacy is even more pronounced, yet fragile. Amidst these tensions, it is crucial to remain wary of those who seek to spread hatred for their own gains. Hate mongers, be it political opportunists or radical elements, thrive on creating divisions. They often manipulate situations to inflame passions, leading to a cycle of violence that benefits no one. It is easy to be swayed by inflammatory speeches, rumours, or propaganda, especially in the age of social media where information, whether true or false, spreads like wildfire. However, it is essential to recognize these attempts for what they are: deliberate efforts to divide communities that have lived together peacefully for centuries. Let us remember that true strength lies in rejecting these voices of hatred. Instead of allowing violence to define our relationships, we must focus on dialogue, empathy, and understanding. Every act of aggression only furthers the agenda of those who seek to divide us.
Another crucial lesson in the wake of the violence is the importance of trusting the rule of law. In any civilized society, justice must be sought through legal means, not through mob action. Violence and mob justice only lead to chaos and a breakdown of societal order. India’s legal system, though not without its flaws, is designed to uphold justice and fairness for all citizens. Resorting to mob violence not only undermines the legal process but also leads to the kind of anarchy that only deepens divisions. It is the responsibility of every citizen, regardless of religion, to trust in this system and work to improve it where necessary, rather than take the law into their own hands. By choosing legal recourse, we ensure that grievances are addressed justly and those responsible for inciting violence or committing crimes are held accountable. No grievance, however justified it may seem, should be addressed through violence. This is not the way of a peaceful society nor a true representation of the values both Hindus and Muslims hold dear.
In the aftermath of the Bahraich violence, it is vital for both communities to come together, not just to heal but to prevent such incidents from happening again. The legacy of Ganga-Jamuni Tehzeeb must be reclaimed, not just as a memory of the past but as a living ideal that shapes our present and future. Leaders of both religious communities must engage in dialogue, work on building trust and remind their followers of the shared culture that binds them. Civil society, media, and educational institutions also have a crucial role to play in countering divisive narratives and promoting stories of unity. Let us remember that what binds us together is far stronger than what divides us. Hindus and Muslims have built a rich, shared heritage over centuries and no single incident or period of violence can erase that. By choosing peace, respect and legal recourse over violence, we honour not only our past but ensure a better future for the generations to come. Now, more than ever, it is time to embrace the values of Ganga-Jamuni Tehzeeb and reject the forces that seek to divide us.
– Resham Fatima
Masters in International Relations
Jawaharlal Nehru University
