Unique harmony in Bikaner as Muslim poets recite Urdu Ramayana every Diwali

In Bikaner, Rajasthan, an annual Diwali tradition brings communities together as Muslim poets recite the Ramayana written in Urdu, fostering brotherhood and breaking down communal barriers.

While the festival of lights is celebrated across the country with joy and illumination, the city of Bikaner in Rajasthan witnesses a unique tradition that exemplifies communal harmony. Every year during Diwali, a special gathering takes place where Muslim poets recite verses of the Ramayana written entirely in the Urdu language. People from both Hindu and Muslim communities sit together to listen to the epic tale, creating a powerful symbol of unity. This annual tradition aims to convey the message that while faiths and languages may differ, the bond of love and brotherhood among people must remain unbroken. At a time when societal divisions and animosity are often highlighted, this gathering serves as a meaningful effort to bridge gaps and spread a message of mutual respect.

 

The Urdu Ramayana by Maulvi Badshah Hussain Khan Rana Lakhnawi
 The centerpiece of this remarkable event is the unique text used for the recitation. While the Ramayana is traditionally heard in Hindi, Sanskrit, or other regional languages across India, Bikaner offers a distinctive experience through its Urdu rendition. This version of the epic was penned by Maulvi Badshah Hussain Khan Rana Lakhnawi. When Muslim poets narrate the episodes of the Ramayana using the poetic cadence of the Urdu language, the audience listens with rapt attention. Individuals from various backgrounds and communities gather in the same space, listening to the narrative without any hesitation. This linguistic fusion not only highlights the versatility of the epic but also demonstrates how art can transcend traditional boundaries to bring people closer.

 

An Annual Tradition Rooted in Diwali
 This event is not a one-time occurrence but an enduring tradition observed annually during the Diwali season in Bikaner. The gathering is organized by the Tourism Writers Association-Mahfile Adab, an organization dedicated to promoting social harmony and interaction through such cultural initiatives. The core objective of the organizers is to use this platform to reinforce messages of peace and togetherness. As households across the city light earthen lamps, this poetic gathering lights a flame of trust and affection in the hearts of the attendees. The true beauty of the program lies not just in the fact that a Muslim poet recites the ancient scripture, but in the effortless way community members sit side by side to listen without any distinction.

 

Healing Divides Through Literature and Language
 The organizers believe that literature and language possess the inherent power to unite rather than divide society. The recitation of the Ramayana in Urdu embodies this very philosophy, acting as a countermeasure to social friction and distance. As people celebrate the festival, this event reminds society that appreciating a spiritual or cultural text requires no religious barriers. The gathering in Bikaner stands as living proof that shared cultural heritage can successfully foster mutual understanding and lasting goodwill among diverse groups of people.

What this means for you
This annual gathering fosters deep social harmony and cultural exchange, offering practical lessons in community bonding and mutual respect.

• Across India: The event serves as an inspiring national example of how cultural traditions can bridge divides and promote inclusivity across diverse communities.
• In Bikaner: Local residents get a unique annual platform to celebrate festivals together, strengthening neighborhood ties and eliminating communal reservations.

Why this happened
This tradition originated from a deliberate effort to use literature and poetry as bridges to overcome social alienation and foster interfaith harmony.

• Literary Creation: The composition of the Ramayana in Urdu by Maulvi Badshah Hussain Khan Rana Lakhnawi made this distinct style of storytelling possible.
• Organized Efforts: The Tourism Writers Association-Mahfile Adab established this annual event to actively counter rising prejudices through shared cultural celebrations.

Questions & Answers

1. When is this Ramayana recitation event held in Bikaner?
The event is held annually on the occasion of Diwali.

2. Who wrote the Ramayana in the Urdu language?
The Urdu version of the Ramayana was written by Maulvi Badshah Hussain Khan Rana Lakhnawi.

3. Which organization organizes this annual gathering?
The event is organized by the Tourism Writers Association-Mahfile Adab.

4. What is the primary highlight of this program?
The main highlight is that Muslim poets recite the Ramayana in Urdu while people from different communities listen together.

https://trendkia.com/en/rajasthan/bikaner-men-pesha-anuthi-misala-muslim-shayaron-ki-jubana-se-gunjati-hai-urdu-ramayana-57640
TrendKia — Har trend, sabse pehle.