UDUPI: In an attempt to bridge the growing communal divide, especially after Muslim traders were denied permission to put up stalls during temple festivals and fairs, Udupi Zilla Souhardha Samithi met Sri Vishwaprasanna Thirtha swamiji of Pejawar Mutt on Wednesday, hoping to find a solution to the problem.
The samithi comprising several like-minded people and led by Abubakker Atrady, said Udupi is a model district in terms of peace and communal harmony. "For several decades, Muslim traders were earning a livelihood by putting up stalls at temple fairs, festivals and religious events. The traders had a cordial relationship with Hindus, and made sure their sentiments were not hurt. Awareness in this regard is essential, and it is important to uphold the message of communal harmony," they stated.
They asked for the seer's support to restore harmony.
In response, the seer said a solution should emerge from within society and from the grassroots. He said Hindu society has suffered a lot in the past. "People are extremely hurt due to some unpleasant events, including cattle theft and the recent hijab row. When a section or group continuously faces injustice, its frustration and anger pour out. Hindu society is fed up with injustices. The problem will not be solved if a few religious leaders speak against it. It should come from within society and from the grassroots. Society definitely needs peace and prosperity. The wrongs cannot be made right by one community," he said.
