As a large number of devotees flock to Varanasi for the Kumbh, hotels in the city are fully booked. Amidst this, a Muslim merchant named Saleem has emerged as a symbol of Hindu-Muslim unity. Seeing Hindu devotees from Ayodhya struggling to find shelter due to the rush, Saleem opened his doors to them, offering a place to stay.
In the video that’s viral on social media, Hindu devotees from Haryana are seen hugging and shaking hands with Saleem in a heartwarming gesture.
“Bhai Saleem ne bohut izzat se hame yahan panah di. Hum ek dusre ko jante bhi nahi hain. Hindu Muslim hain hain sath to sab ek dusre ke bhai bhai hain,” (brother Salim honoured us even though we didn’t know each other. When Hindu and Muslims are together we are all brothers to each other) said a Hindu devotee.
Vedh Singh, another devotee talked about Saleem’s generosity and said, “When we approached him, he welcomed us with great gestures and hospitality. When I got to know that he is a Muslim, I hesitated initially, but the way he treated us made me feel like I am a part of his family.”
“Those who are promoting Hindu Muslim hatred and sowing division are talking nonsense. There is no truth to it. It’s the politicians who are spreading these lies,” Vedh added.
On being asked about the government not allowing any Muslims during Maha Kumbh Mela, the devotees said that if Muslims didn’t come to rescue and provide shelter for them, where would they go.
“We will go back to Haryana and tell everyone about our Saleem Bhai,” said Shyam Sharma.
While describing her experience about the gesture, Renu became emotional and said, “I feel great here. I never thought I would be so honoured by a Muslim family.” As she spoke, everyone around her started to clap.
“They can live as long as they wish and come again. I am a social activist. We do not differentiate on the basis of caste and religion,” said Saleem as he finally spoke.
He gave the example of Caliph Umar as his inspiration. He said that Umar, despite being a Caliph whose kingdom spanned huge lands, slept on the mattress and upon seeing a thirsty dog on his journey, he sat and cried thinking what would he answer if he were to be questioned by Allah about the thirsty dog.
It’s noteworthy that after the tragic Kumbh Mela stampede several Muslims came to the rescue of devotees with many lining up to serve food and provide other basic facilities. Many Muslims opened their homes and welcomed devotees to stay with them. The videos that emerged on social media showcase a beautiful act of humanity and compassion.
