Prayagraj: In the wake of the tragic Maha Kumbh stampede on January 29, which left at least 70 dead and many stranded without food, shelter, or means to return home, the Muslim community of Allahabad (Prayagraj) stepped forward with an exemplary display of Islamic brotherhood. Ignoring warnings to stay away, they opened mosques, madrasas, imambaras, and even their homes to provide relief to the victims.
A Humanitarian Response Amidst Tragedy
Social media was flooded with distressing visuals of the chaos that unfolded at the Mauni Amavasya Snan. Survivors, many of whom had lost everything in the commotion, were left without food, money, or shelter. Amidst this devastation, Allahabad’s Muslims swiftly organized relief efforts, setting up community kitchens, shelter camps, and distribution centers to aid those in distress.
Prominent mosques, such as Chowk Masjid, Bada Tajia Imambara, and Khuldabad Sabzi Mandi Masjid, were transformed into overnight shelters. Volunteers worked tirelessly to distribute warm blankets, food, and water to those stranded.
Justice Katju Lauds Allahabad Muslims
Former Supreme Court Judge Markandey Katju, a native of Allahabad, praised the selfless service of Muslims in his blog, stating:
“Despite years of attempts to polarize society, demonize Muslims, and strip them of their rights, their response to the tragedy was one of kindness and humanity. Instead of resentment, they chose compassion—offering shelter, food, and warmth to those in need. This is a shining example of the Ganga-Jamuni tehzeeb that still thrives in India.”
He further emphasized that such unity is the way forward for the nation, urging people to resist communal propaganda.
Survivors Share Heartfelt Stories
Several Hindu pilgrims expressed deep gratitude for the help they received:
• Ramnath Tiwari (68), Madhya Pradesh: “We were exhausted and helpless, but our Muslim brethren came forward to help us.”
• Rameshwar Prasad, Madhya Pradesh: “I had nowhere to go. A kind man named Rashid welcomed me into his home, gave me food and a blanket. I will never forget his kindness.”
• Radha Devi, Banaras: “A young man, Areeb, led me to a school where we were fed and given warm bedding. Their kindness reminded me that humanity is above religion.”
A Community United in Service
From Khuldabad, Rani Mandi, and Himmatganj to Roshan Bagh and Shahganj, Muslim families opened their doors to shelter the stranded. Mosques and madrasas housed hundreds overnight, while women prepared meals for the hungry. Sikhs also joined hands in relief efforts, reflecting true interfaith harmony.
Even educational institutions like Yadgar Hussaini Inter College stepped in. Manager Mohammad Mehndi Gauhar Kazmi stated:
“We didn’t plan this; we acted when we saw the suffering. Our classrooms, halls, and playgrounds became shelters. We cooked food and ensured that no one left hungry.”
The Shia Muslim community also played a crucial role, opening Imambaras for stranded pilgrims. Hasan Akhtar remarked:
“Without hesitation, we opened our doors to those in need. This is what humanity demands.”
Media Recognition for an Unforgettable Act of Kindness
Even media outlets that often portray Muslims in a negative light were forced to acknowledge their noble service. Dainik Bhaskar, one of India’s largest Hindi dailies, published an article highlighting how the people of Prayagraj united in a time of crisis, proving that humanity surpasses all barriers.
A Testament to Brotherhood Amidst Adversity
The Maha Kumbh Mela has long been an event of shared cultural and economic significance for both Hindus and Muslims. However, this year’s divisive politics and calls for economic boycotts had excluded Muslims from trade and services. Yet, when tragedy struck, they chose unity over division, compassion over resentment.
The people of Allahabad have set an example of true Islamic brotherhood, reaffirming that in times of crisis, humanity must always come first.
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