Pune

After Dhule setting the example, the Muslims of Pune, Maharashtra, have decided to postpone the Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi procession as it falls on the last day of the ongoing Ganeshotsav to facilitate smooth arrangements for the Hindu festival.

Ganesh Visarjan (idol immersion) and Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi fall on the same day, and it becomes difficult for the authorities to make arrangements for both simultaneously. The two massive processions taking place on the same day can also contribute to the traffic chaos.

The Muslim leaders of Pune announced that the procession will be held on September 8.

Pune is considered the birthplace of the Ganeshotsav, becoming a community festival, the movement for which was launched by the freedom fighter Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak.

The city's Ganesh immersion processions, especially the one on the day of Anant Chaturdashi, are famous not just in Maharashtra but across the country. Thousands of devotees participate in these processions, putting tremendous pressure on the city's traffic and security infrastructure.

This year, Eid-e-Milad, the birth of Prophet Muhammad, falls on the very same day. On this occasion, the Muslim community takes out colourful processions through the city’s roads.

Scenes from Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi procession in Pune (FIle: Courtesy: Punekar)

Leaders said that with both festivals coinciding, there was a high possibility of massive crowds, which could have disrupted the festive spirit of both events. Recognizing this, the Muslim community took the initiative to postpone their procession.

Social activist Anwar Shaikh stated, "Pune has a tradition of unity. We took this decision to ensure there is no tension between Ganesh devotees and our Muslim brothers in the procession, and that both festivals can be celebrated peacefully. We will hold our procession only after the Ganesh immersion concludes peacefully."

Not only did the Muslim community decide to postpone the procession, but it has also taken a firm stand against the use of DJs and loud sound systems.

In accordance with a Supreme Court order on the ban on playing loud music during religious processions, the community has requested the Pune Police to allow traditional recitations of Naat (Islamic religious songs) and not permit the use of DJs.

The police have welcomed this decision by the Muslim community. This move will greatly help in maintaining law and order during both festivals.

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A similar situation arose last year as well, and the Muslim community had set a great example of social harmony by postponing their procession then, too. This decision by Pune's Muslim community serves as an inspiring example not just for the city, but for the entire nation.