Hajo's 35th Manikut Utsav Unites Communities in Assam
People in Hajo, Assam, celebrated the 35th edition of the Manikut Utsav and Samanya Sobhajatra on Thursday. This event marks the first day of the Assamese month of Magh. Hajo is renowned for its long history of communal harmony. For centuries, Hindus and Muslims have coexisted peacefully here.
Festival Origins and Purpose
The All Assam Students' Union initiated this festival in 1993. It started soon after the demolition of the Babri Masjid in Ayodhya. The main objective was to safeguard communal unity in Assam. Over the years, the festival has grown into a significant symbol of brotherhood.
Procession Details and Rituals
The Manikut Utsav is a religio-cultural procession held in Hajo. It begins at the gate of the Poa Mecca Dargah on Garudachala Hill. The procession then winds its way to the Hayagriva Madhav Temple on Manikut Hill. This year, the event featured a heartfelt moment between religious leaders.
Syed Farid Ali, the Khadim of Poa Mecca Dargah, and Shivaprasad Sharma, the Doloi of Hayagriva Madhav Temple, greeted each other warmly. They shared a hug that sent a powerful message of unity to the world. This gesture highlighted the deep bonds between the communities.
Voices from Hajo
Shivaprasad Sharma spoke about Hajo's unique heritage. He called it the land of Pancha Tirtha, hosting five significant pilgrimage sites. These include the Hayagriva Madhav temple and the Poa Mecca Dargah. Sharma emphasized that Hajo stands as a living example of interfaith peaceful coexistence for decades. He noted that the rally continues this tradition each year.
Syed Farid Ali shared his thoughts on the importance of harmony. He warned that hatred can widen gaps between communities and pollute minds. Ali urged people to prioritize humanity, peace, and coexistence. He stressed the need to accept each other despite differences.
Significance of the Event
The Manikut Utsav serves as a reminder of Assam's rich cultural tapestry. It demonstrates how diverse religious groups can live together in peace. The festival not only celebrates faith but also reinforces social bonds. In today's world, such events are crucial for promoting tolerance and understanding.
Residents of Hajo actively participate in the festivities each year. They come together to honor their shared history and values. The procession includes music, prayers, and community gatherings. It fosters a sense of belonging among all attendees.
This year's edition was particularly meaningful as it reached its 35th milestone. It showed that the spirit of unity remains strong in Hajo. The event attracted locals and visitors alike, all eager to witness the harmony firsthand.
As Assam moves forward, Hajo's example offers hope for other regions. It proves that communal harmony is achievable with effort and goodwill. The Manikut Utsav continues to inspire people across India and beyond.
