Udupi: As Nagara Panchami was celebrated with devotion across Tulunadu, a unique instance of communal harmony came to light in Tenka Ermal, Udupi district, where Muslim brothers have been playing the Nagaswara — a traditional wind instrument — during Naga worship rituals for generations.
In a heartening example of interfaith unity, three Muslim musicians led by Abdul Razak performed the Nagaswara at the ancestral home of the Amin family, during the Amin Moolasthan’s Nagara Panchami celebration. Razak, who has been playing the instrument for 35 years, and another player with 11 years of experience, have become a familiar presence at Hindu rituals, including services at Kaup Janardhana Temple.
“We do this with complete devotion,” Abdul Razak said, emphasizing the deep respect they hold for the tradition. “It’s not about religion, it’s about honoring the practice.”
K.C. Amin, President of the Amin Moolasthan, praised the Muslim artists’ contribution:
“Today, we offered a special Nagaswara seva for Nagadev. Abdul Razak and his companions have been part of our celebrations for generations. Though they are from the Muslim community, they’ve consistently made our religious events spiritually rich.”
In a time often marked by division, this enduring tradition reflects the deep-rooted Hindu-Muslim harmony on the Karnataka coast. The melodic notes of the Nagaswara, played by Razak and his friends, stand as a symbol of unity, blending devotion with brotherhood.