Dayaram Vashisht/Faridabad (Haryana)
Riyaz Khan, a resident of Faridabad, Haryana, is a self-appointed warrior of cleanliness. This 32-year-old volunteer not only cleans toilets in government schools to send a message about the importance of hygiene in life, but he also spruces up the banks of rivers on the occasion of Chhath Puja to enable devotees to pray in a clean place.
Riyaz Khan is a believer of all religions. From studying Bhagwad Gita to reading Quran and Bible, he doesn’t want to miss on any celestial messages for humans. He fasts during Navratras and helps in organizing Durga Puja, Chhath Puja, and even Janmashtami festivities for Hindus. On a personal level. Riyaz is a practicing Muslim and observes all the essentials of Islam.
In all his activities, Riyaz Khan says he gets unimaginable levels of support and love from Hindus in his efforts.
Riyaz participating in a memorial service for Pulwama martyrs'
It was soon after passing the tenth class in Allahabad, UP, that Riyaz Khan got involved in social service. At present, he is working in a local company.
He even takes care of poor children who are not admitted to schools by meeting the Principals and helping the children.
Riyaz Khan says: “There is no country like India; we feel proud of our country. But some people are bent upon harming the country in the fire of communal under a conspiracy.” He rues that the people have forgotten that freedom was won by all Indians working together. “That is why we must maintain brotherhood and add to the strength of our country. The country cannot be divided based on religion.”
He says he believes the owner of all religious scripts and holy books is the same supreme authority. “All religions have fundamental rights. All religions are lovely.”
Seeking blessings from a Godman
He also helps people facing issues with their employers in factories. He says in all labour disputes that come to him he resolves the same by meeting the contractor and convincing him that he must pay the wages and settle the dispute with labourer.
Riyaz Khan says he has a Gita and a Quran with him. “Everyone in my family supports me. Nobody has ever objected to my reading Bhagwad Gita or observing fasts during Navratri.”
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