Love Triumphs in an Era of Hatred: 100-Year-Old Mosque in Araiyanwala Kalan Handed Over to the Muslim Community…
Araiyanwala Kalan / Faridkot (Alexander D’Souza): In today’s times-when walls are often erected in the name of religion-the Panchayat and residents of Araiyanwala Kalan village in Faridkot have set a shining example of humanity and mutual brotherhood, an act whose resonance is being heard across the entire state. Through the collective efforts of the village, a historic mosque-dating back nearly 100 years to the pre-independence era-was handed over to the Muslim community with profound reverence.
The Adhan Resounds After 79 Years; Prayers Offered:
This marked the first occasion since the Partition of 1947 that the walls of this historic mosque once again echoed with the call of “Allahu Akbar” (God is Great). In the presence of office-bearers from the Muslim Welfare Society, Faridkot, Imams Mohammad Zahid and Najmul Haq led the prayers here for the very first time since the Partition.
The atmosphere was deeply emotional as the keys to the mosque-along with the responsibility for its upkeep-were formally handed over to the Muslim community.
The Panchayat’s Big Heart: “Humanity is the Greatest Religion”:
This noble initiative was spearheaded by Sarpanch Kulwinder Kumar, Sarpanch Kuljeet Kaur Virk, and President Jagtar Singh Virk.
“For us, all religions-Hindu, Muslim, Sikh, and Christian-are equal. For a time after independence, a Gurdwara Sahib was housed here; however, the Panchayat meticulously preserved this structure specifically as a mosque. Today, by handing it over to its rightful custodians, we have found a deep sense of spiritual fulfillment,” stated Kulwinder Kumar, the Sarpanch.
Their Efforts Bore Fruit:
Dr. Sukhdev, Rashpal Khan, and Goldy Brar-all residents of the village-played pivotal roles in transforming this historic moment into reality.
Dr. Sukhdev stated that he had long been striving to restore this place of worship to its original form-an endeavor that, by the grace of Allah, has finally come to fruition today.
Muslim Community Expresses Gratitude:
Haji Dilawar Hussain, President of the Muslim Welfare Society, extended his thanks to the Panchayat, assuring them that the building would soon undergo necessary repairs and cleaning to be fully prepared for worship. He also offered special prayers for the progress and prosperity of the village.
Key Dignitaries Present on the Occasion:
A large number of villagers were in attendance, including Vice President Mohammad Hanish Qureshi, Chief Secretary Munna Khan Mansuri, and Treasurer Mohammad Rashid.
News: 3-1
Photo Caption: Panchayat members handing over the keys to the mosque, alongside devotees offering prayers.
