Andhra Pradesh: Cantonment area of ​​Vizianagaram a melting pot of faiths

According to residents, the core area of ​​Vizianagaram cantonment, dating back to the British period, witnesses Hindus and Christians celebrating Ramzan together.

According to residents, the core area of ​​Vizianagaram cantonment, dating back to the British period, witnesses Hindus and Christians celebrating Ramzan together.

The cantonment, a prominent area of ​​Vizianagaram, a prominent area of ​​the British period, is known as a melting pot of various cultures and religions.

Established here 110 years ago for the military and police needs of the British Raj, the cantonment saw a steady amalgamation of different cultures. Many historic churches, mosques and temples can be found in the cantonment area of ​​Fort City.

The cosmopolitan culture of the area is reflected in the way residents celebrate each major festival, irrespective of caste and creed. The holy month of Ramadan for Muslims, which began on April 2 and will end on May 2, is being celebrated by 8,000 families here. Even Hindu and Christian families are invited to attend the iftar, where Muslims break their day-long fast and offer prayers.

“The message in the Quran is relevant to all. Jamaat-e-Islami Hind district chief Shaik Syed said, the Telugu translation of the Quran helps followers of all religions understand the teachings of Islam, which asserts that values ​​such as humanity, charity and sacrifice are universal. Hindu,

The association’s Vizianagaram city president Mohd Habib and AP Minorities Finance Corporation’s Mohd Nasir said the month of Ramzan brings them great joy as Hindus and Christians actively participate in the festivities.

“Many Hindu families also organize iftar parties for us. This is a testament to his love and affection for us. The practice that started in the time of my ancestors continues without any interruption,” said Mr. Nasir, who participates in religious functions of all religions. Movement for Peace and Justice State executive member PM Rahmatullah said that his organization has been trying to create awareness among people for the need for religious harmony that has prevailed in the cantonment area for decades.

Senior advocate P. Chittibabu, who attended the religious conference of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind, said that humanity is the only religion followed for many decades by the people of the cantonment. “Many Hindu families here have named their children Khadar Baba after the famous Sufi mystic Hazrat Khadar Baba Auliya. Hindu women also come here in large numbers in the dargah. These are heartwarming examples of unity among all religions here,” said Mr. Chittibabu.