Pune

In the heart of Maharashtra, a state known for its grand and vibrant Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations, Dhule, a city in Maharashtra with a sizeable Muslim population, has set an example of communal harmony. With the 10-day Ganesh festival commencing on 27 August, and the Muslim festival of Eid-e-Milad falling on 5 September - a potential overlap of large-scale public processions posing a logistical challenge for the administration – Muslims offered to postpone the Eid procession by three days.

For those unfamiliar with Maharashtra's culture, Ganesh Chaturthi is not just a festival; it's the region's most significant public celebration, comparable with the Durga Puja of Bengal. Cities and towns are adorned with decorations, and for ten days, massive processions with idols of Lord Ganesha fill the streets, accompanied by music, dance, and immense crowds, especially during the immersion ceremony.

Eid-e-Milad, the birthday of the Prophet Muhammad, is also observed with reverence, often involving large public processions.

Understanding the potential for logistical strain and wanting to preserve the sanctity and peace of both festivals, the district administration held a Peace Committee meeting attended, among others, by District Collector Bhagyashree Vispute and Superintendent of Police Shrikant Dhivare. They met with members of the Sirat Committee and other Muslim leaders.

DC Bhagyashree Vispute and SP Shrikant Dhivare at the Peace Meeting

During the discussion, the administration gently suggested the possibility of rescheduling the Eid procession by a few days to maintain law and order seamlessly.

In a move that drew immediate appreciation, the Muslim leaders discussed the matter on the spot and unanimously agreed to abide by the suggestion. They announced that the Eid-e-Milad procession across Dhule would be held on Monday, 8 September.

This decision won them praise from the administration. The District Collector and SP publicly felicitated the members of the Sirat Committee, honouring their commitment to social harmony.

"On the occasion of Eid-e-Milad, we should all focus on empathy, goodwill, peace, and compassion. It is our collective responsibility to instill these values in our future generations while celebrating our festivals with religious sanctity," said District Collector Vispute.

SP Dhivare extended his greetings for the upcoming festival and thanked the Sirat Committee for their cooperation. He stressed the importance of preventing any untoward incidents during festivities and warned against the misuse of social media to spread rumours or glorify criminals.

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This gesture from Dhule is more than just an administrative adjustment; it is a profound act of brotherhood, showcasing how communities can work together to uphold the diverse, syncretic fabric of India.