Prayagraj/Medina: In a heartwarming display of interfaith harmony, a young Muslim man from Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, was seen praying for the health of Premanand Maharaj, a renowned Hindu saint, at one of Islam’s holiest sites, Masjid-e-Nabawi in Medina, Saudi Arabia. The video, which has gone viral on social media, underscores India’s long-standing tradition of Ganga-Jamuni culture and communal unity.
Premanand Maharaj is reportedly suffering from kidney-related ailments. Concerned for his wellbeing, Sufyan Allahabadi, while visiting Medina, posted a video on Instagram, calling on people to join him in prayers for the saint’s recovery.
Prayers from the Gumbad-e-Khizra
In the video, Sufyan is seen holding a photo of Premanand Maharaj and addressing viewers:
“This is our Premanand Maharaj Ji. A very good man from India. I am currently at the Gumbad-e-Khizra. I have learned that he is not well. So, from here, I pray that he gets well as soon as possible. He is a very genuine and good man.”
The background features the Gumbad-e-Khizra, a revered dome within the Masjid-e-Nabawi, highlighting the spiritual significance of the location from which the prayers are being offered.
Message of unity and humanity
Sufyan also reflected on the shared cultural heritage of Prayagraj, famously known for its Ganga-Jamuni tehzeeb, which celebrates Hindu-Muslim harmony. He emphasised the importance of human values over religious identity:
“Humans are humans, Hindus and Muslims alike. We, from the city of Medina, pray for our Hindu brothers. One should be neither Hindu nor Muslim, just a good person. We pray for Maharaj Ji that Allah grants him health and well-being.”
This act comes at a time when right-wing groups in several Indian states have attempted to create communal tensions. Videos like Sufyan’s highlight the resilience of India’s syncretic traditions and the enduring belief that faith and humanity transcend religious boundaries.
Social media response
The video has quickly gained traction across platforms, with thousands praising Sufyan for his selfless and inclusive gesture. Netizens highlighted how such acts reinforce communal harmony and serve as reminders that genuine concern for others is not bound by religion.
Religious leaders from both Hindu and Muslim communities have lauded the initiative, emphasising that prayers and goodwill across faiths strengthen societal bonds.
Conclusion
Sufyan Allahabadi’s prayers for Premanand Maharaj in Medina serve as a powerful symbol of India’s pluralistic ethos. At a time when divisive narratives are gaining visibility, the act stands as a reminder of shared humanity, respect, and the enduring spirit of interfaith solidarity.
It reinforces the belief that Ganga-Jamuni culture is alive, transcending borders and religions, and that compassion remains a universal language.