A temple, a mosque, and the harmony in between

Time of India

23-07-2025

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Panchkula: In Panchkula, amidst the sacred chants of "Har Har Mahadev" echoing from the 500-year-old Saketri temple, a different kind of devotion unfolds, one that transcends religion and celebrates the unity of communities.
As the holy month of Sawan progresses, devotees come to the ancient Saketri Mandir to offer prayers to Lord Shiva, especially on Sawan Shivratri, considered one of the holiest nights in Hinduism. But beyond the spiritual reverence lies a heartening tale of communal harmony between Hindus and Muslims who share the sacred space not just in prayer, but in everyday life.
Right next to the temple stands a mosque, and just outside the mandir, rows of stalls bustle with activity, many owned by members of both communities.
Among them is Jalal Uddin, a vendor originally from Uttar Pradesh. Having moved to Panchkula 18 years ago, Jalal has become a familiar face around the Mansa Devi and Saketri temples, setting up his stall every Shivratri.
On a hot July afternoon, Jalal arranges colorful toy fans at his stall. Nearby, Seema, whose father has a prasad stall at Mansa Devi since 2005 and has set up a stall at Saketri for Shivratri, teases him: "You're selling a toy fan, but you yourself are sitting in this heat!" The two share a hearty laugh before Seema returns to attend to a customer.
by Taboola
by Taboola
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These everyday interactions reflect a deep-rooted bond that has only strengthened over time. Kanta Rani, who sells prasad just across from a shop owned by Anwar Mohammad, says, "When there's a rush in the temple at night, these boys, including Anwar, help us manage the crowd. They hold sticks and allow people in batches, so things remain orderly."
Anwar Mohammad, whose family runs four shops outside the mandir, shares a touching anecdote, "When there's a wedding in our community, the temple committee lends us utensils without hesitation.
We help each other, that's how it has always been."
KD Sharma, the Pradhan of the temple, echoes this sentiment with pride. "The Muslim community here is always ready to help, during big festivals or whenever we need them. We don't see differences. We live and work together."
As the temple bells chime and incense diffuses through the air, the real offering at Saketri isn't just flowers or milk to Lord Shiva, it's the shared respect and brotherhood that bring these communities closer, year after year.
Jalal, watching the evening crowd begin to gather, quietly says, "I have three children to feed and a family to support. That is my religion."