For those who spread hate, this should be an eye-opener.
Hindus in Saundatti taluk of Belgavi district of Karnataka observe Muharram and express their love for the martyrs of Karbala.
The taluk has zero Mulsim population. Yet Hindus observe Muhraam and pay tribute to the martyrs of Karbala.
In fact, in Hirebidanur, Hindu priests conduct religious proceedings in the mosque of ‘Fakireshwar Swami‘.
Priest of the mosque Yallappa Naikar told The Times of India that two Muslim brothers built mosques – one near Gutanatti and the other at Hirebidanur.
Locals continued to pray and observe Muharram every year even after the brothers’ death.
“We invite a moulvi from nearby Bevinakatti village during Muharram every year. He stays in the mosque for a week and offers prayers in the traditional Islamic way. On the other days, I take the responsibility of the mosque,” Naikar said.
Hirebidanur, which has a population of close to 3,000 is dominated by the Kuruba and Valmiki communities. During Muharram, streets are lit up. A ritual of walking on fire is also performed.
MLA Mahantesh Koujalagi sanctioned Rs 8 lakhs for renovating the mosque building.