Bharat Milap and Eid-e-Milad: The Illusion of Hindu-Muslim Unity

It is often observed that during Hindu events like “Bharat Milap^[1]” or “Ramleela^[2]” themes of “Hindu-Muslim Unity” are frequently highlighted (for reasons unknown). However, when similar events are organized by the Muslim community, the focus is invariably on “Muslim Unity” and the so-called “oppression” faced by the Muslim community.

Today, on the occasion of Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi^[3], I heard certain remarks at a local gathering, which were along these lines:

• This is a communal assembly.
• The need to awaken the Muslim community to its true power. For instance, there are over 40 Muslim MPs (in both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha), over 100 Muslim MLAs, and thousands of Muslim mayors and panchayat members across the country.
• Hatred and oppression against Muslims in India are on the rise, for which governments are responsible. Therefore, Muslims must come forward and resolve this in their way.
• Muslims must establish their own political leadership, one that can represent them from the panchayat level to the assembly and Lok Sabha and change the nation’s current political landscape (with the aim of removing the BJP from power).
• For the wise, a hint is sufficient.

In addition to these points, much more was said from the stage, which I find difficult to express here in my own words. However, these five points alone are enough to highlight the stark difference in mindset and perspective between them and us.

What stands out the most in all of this is that, while these remarks were being made, a prominent district-level BJP (Hindu) leader was present on the same stage as the chief guest. This leader, incidentally, sees no difference between Lord Ram and Prophet Muhammad.

While this may be my personal experience, it reflects an undeniable truth about our society and nation. I leave the rest to your own understanding.

Citations

^[1] https://kashi.gov.in/event/bharat-milap

^[2] https://ich.unesco.org/en/RL/ramlila-the-traditional-performance-of-the-ramayana-00110#:~:text=Ramlila%2C%20literally%20%E2%80%9CRama’s%20play%E2%80%9D,%2C%20narration%2C%20recital%20and%20dialogue.

^[3] https://www.business-standard.com/india-news/eid-e-milad-un-nabi-2024-best-wishes-to-share-with-your-loved-ones-124091600211_1.html