Pune: A heartwarming story of communal harmony unfolded in Pune when an unexpected downpour disrupted a Hindu wedding at Alankaran Lawns near SRPF Grounds, Wanawadi. As the rain threatened to ruin the ceremony of Sankruti Kawade and Narendra Galande, a nearby Muslim family celebrating a Walima opened their venue and hearts to save the day, as per a report by the Free press Journal.
The Muslim reception, hosted by retired police officer Faruk Kazi for his son Mohsin and bride Maheen, was underway in an adjacent sheltered banquet hall. When the Hindu wedding venue was drenched, the Kawade family humbly approached the Kazis seeking temporary space.
In a spontaneous gesture of compassion, the Kazis agreed without hesitation, even involving their guests to help set up the space for the Hindu wedding. The ‘Saptapadi’ ceremony was conducted inside the hall, followed by the Muslim Walima, showcasing a rare and beautiful instance of interfaith cooperation.
“What began as a weather mishap turned into a testament of India’s pluralism,” said Sanjay Kawade, the bride’s uncle. “This was a slap in the face to those who spread hatred.”
The bride’s father, Chetan Kawade, expressed deep gratitude, stating, “We will always remember the Kazis’ kindness. Only in India can two weddings from different faiths happen under the same roof with such grace.”
Faruk Kazi, emotionally moved, shared, “I saw my daughter in the bride. How could I not help?”
Not only did the Kazi family offer space, but they also invited the Kawades to join the feast and made arrangements to accommodate their caterers.
The moving image of two newlywed couples — one Hindu, one Muslim — standing on the same stage, surrounded by smiles and respect, left an indelible mark on guests and onlookers alike.
This isn’t the first time Pune witnessed such interfaith compassion. Just last month, social worker Javed Khan lit the funeral pyre of Sudhir Kinkle, a Hindu man, helping his grieving sister Jayshree fulfill an essential ritual in the absence of male family members.
Both stories serve as a reminder: in a time when religious divisions often dominate headlines, humanity and harmony continue to quietly thrive in the hearts of ordinary Indians.
