Varanasi: A viral video from the sacred city of Varanasi has ignited a nationwide conversation after Muslim women were seen performing aarti at the Patalpuri Math during Guru Purnima celebrations. The unexpected interfaith gesture was captured during the ceremony held for Jagadguru Balak Devacharya, and shared by News24 on X (formerly Twitter).
The video shows the women holding traditional aarti thaalis, offering flowers, and chanting hymns alongside Hindu devotees—a sight both celebrated and criticised across social media platforms.
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A rare gesture of harmony
Event organisers clarified that the participation of the Muslim women was intentional and symbolic, aimed at fostering communal harmony and interfaith understanding. According to one organiser, “The guru-shishya tradition knows no caste or religion. It is rooted in respect and devotion.”
The setting was deeply spiritual. Lamps flickered, chants echoed through the math, and devotees—irrespective of religious identity—gathered under one roof to honour the spiritual guru. A participant was overheard saying, “Guru-shishya parampara mein jaati ka koi sthaan nahi hota hai” (Caste has no place in the tradition of the guru and disciple).
Not the first time
This isn’t the first such display of interfaith devotion in Varanasi. During Diwali celebrations in 2006, following the terrorist attack at Sankat Mochan temple, Nazneen Ansari and her group began participating in Ram Aarti at the Vishal Bharat Sansthan to send a message of peace and cultural unity. They have since recited Hanuman Chalisa and offered prayers annually.
Similar gestures have occurred elsewhere: Sikh women have read the Quran in gurdwara events, and Hindu women have joined Friday prayers at mosques—symbolising faith beyond labels.
Social media reactions: applause and alarm
As with most viral content, reactions to the Guru Purnima video have been polarised. While many users praised the inclusivity, others questioned the intent.
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“Faith is faith. This is beautiful!” wrote one user.
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“Aarti karna hai toh hijab mein kyun?” asked another, questioning dress codes.
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A sceptic bluntly wrote, “Chal jhoota! Ek bhi Muslim nahi hoga, guarantee ke saath.”
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Another posted, “Poshak hai ya politics?” implying a political stunt under the guise of devotion.
Despite the criticism, many viewers expressed admiration for the courage to rise above sectarian divides. “This is the India I believe in,” said one commenter, echoing the sentiment of unity.
Faith as a bridge, not a wall
The moment captured at Patalpuri Math has emerged as more than just a viral video. It serves as a poignant reminder that religious practices, when performed with sincerity, can bridge communities rather than divide them. While critics may doubt the motives, the event undeniably sparked dialogue on religious tolerance, shared values, and the role of spiritual spaces in modern India.