At a time when communal tensions have flared in parts of the country, Raiganj in North Dinajpur offered a moving example of interfaith harmony. In Paschim Birnagar, members of the Muslim community paused their planned Kawali celebration to join the last rites of Sudha Roy, an 81-year-old retired primary school educator who passed away on Tuesday night.
The gesture has been hailed across the town as a powerful reminder of the deep-rooted ties and mutual respect shared between communities in Bengal. Roy, known for her tireless dedication to students of all religions, lived in a house near Khikipara, a Muslim-majority locality.
Following the end of Eid festivities, local residents had arranged a Kawali performance at the mosque. But upon hearing of Sudha Roy’s demise, they decided to postpone the event, choosing instead to walk alongside the mourners as a mark of respect.
Sutapa Roy, her daughter and a teacher at Coatgaon Free Primary School, expressed heartfelt thanks: “My mother never saw religion in her students—only children to nurture. Our neighbours’ decision to stand with us instead of celebrating has been deeply touching.”
Rosan Ali, a neighbour and former pupil, recalled fondly, “We learned our basics from ‘Sudha Didimony.’ Her love was unconditional. Joining her final journey was the least we could do to honour her legacy.”
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