The Momma Clan

In times of crisis, the true essence of humanity shines through, transcending barriers of religion and identity. This sentiment was vividly demonstrated on the night of 29th January in Uttar Pradesh, when the Muslim community extended an extraordinary gesture of solidarity and compassion. Following the tragic stampede at the Maha Kumbh, which left thousands stranded with no immediate means to return home, local Muslim families, mosques, madrasas, and imambaras became sanctuaries of hope.

A Night of Chaos and Desperation

The Maha Kumbh, one of the world’s largest religious gatherings, draws millions of Hindu devotees seeking spiritual purification. However, amidst the sea of faith and devotion, tragedy struck as a stampede left scores of people injured and many more stranded. Highways became gridlocked with buses and private vehicles unable to move, leaving pilgrims exhausted, hungry, and without shelter.

As the news of the distressing situation spread, a remarkable response emerged – not from government authorities alone, but from ordinary citizens driven by an unshaken belief in the sanctity of human life.

Mosques, Madrasas, and Homes Become Shelters

In a heartwarming display of communal harmony, Muslim families in neighbourhoods near the affected areas wasted no time in opening their doors to those in need. Mosques such as Khuldabad Sabzi Mandi Masjid, Bada Tajia Imambara, and Chowk Masjid transformed into relief shelters overnight.

Community kitchens were swiftly set up, offering piping hot meals, tea, and snacks to the weary. Volunteers mobilised resources within hours, gathering blankets and warm clothing to shield people from the biting cold. The hospitality extended was not a matter of charity but of shared humanity.

“In such times, there is no Hindu or Muslim – there is only humanity,” said Mohammad Irshad of Bahadur Ganj. “That night, we saw people suffering, and we did what needed to be done. We welcomed them as our guests, fed them, and made sure they were safe.”

Compassion Without Boundaries

Throughout the night, volunteers worked tirelessly to accommodate as many people as possible. Women and children were given priority, with mosques and homes opening their doors to ensure their comfort and safety. Makeshift sleeping arrangements were made in madrasas and community halls, while local residents even set up roadside counters to distribute water, biscuits, and warm blankets.

The sheer scale of the selfless response was awe-inspiring. The Muslim community did not pause to ask who these stranded individuals were, what faith they followed, or where they came from. Their only concern was easing the suffering of fellow human beings.

A Lesson in Humanity

The Maha Kumbh stampede was a moment of crisis, but it also became a testament to the boundless power of compassion. At a time when religious divisions often dominate headlines, the people of Uttar Pradesh reminded the world of a simple yet profound truth: humanity must always come before religion.

This act of kindness will be etched in the memories of those who witnessed it, serving as a powerful reminder that in moments of darkness, light can come from the most unexpected places. The solidarity shown by the Muslim community during this crisis was not just an act of generosity – it was an embodiment of what it means to be truly human.

Let this story serve as an inspiration, urging us all to look beyond differences and embrace the shared responsibility of caring for one another. In the end, it is not our religious affiliations that define us, but the love and compassion we extend to those in need.

-Dr Arwa Saifi