In a heartwarming display of interfaith harmony, Muslims from Malerkotla and nearby areas upheld a cherished tradition during the annual Shaheedi Sabha at Fatehgarh Sahib by organizing a langar of “zarda” (sweet yellow rice). This time-honored practice commemorates the bravery of Nawab Sher Mohammad Khan, a historical figure renowned for opposing the execution of Sahibzadas Zorawar Singh and Fateh Singh, the young sons of Guru Gobind Singh, by Wazir Khan, the faujdar of Sirhind.
“Asin mithe chaulan naal mithaas vand de han (we spread sweetness with this delicacy),” explained Dr. Naseer Akhtar of the Sikh Muslim Sanjhan of Malerkotla, as large containers of fragrant sweet rice were prepared by volunteers. The zarda, known for its comforting aroma and warmth, is served to thousands of pilgrims who gather at Fatehgarh Sahib annually to honor the sacrifice of the Sahibzadas and Mata Gujri. “We are proud residents of Malerkotla, whose Nawab courageously stood against tyranny,” Dr. Akhtar added.
This unique gesture of unity goes beyond culinary traditions. In a similarly moving act, residents of Bathan and Ranwan villages in Khamanon tehsil organized a langar at the tomb of a Muslim saint known locally as Laal Maseet. Situated adjacent to the railway line near Gurdwara Fatehgarh Sahib, the centuries-old tomb holds deep significance for both Muslims and Sikhs. The Muslim custodians of the shrine annually entrust its keys to the Sikhs during the three-day Shaheedi Sabha, symbolizing mutual respect and shared heritage.
“This is more than a tradition; it’s a responsibility passed down through generations,” remarked Balwinder Singh, a 70-year-old Sikh volunteer who has participated in the langar for over six decades. “Our elders taught us that fostering unity between communities is a way of life.”
The Shaheedi Sabha, marked by the poignant story of Fatehgarh Sahib, continues to be a testament to the enduring spirit of communal harmony. The courage of Nawab Sher Mohammad Khan and the cooperation between Sikhs and Muslims at this historic site serve as a beacon of tolerance and mutual respect in an often divided world.
As pilgrims gather to pay homage to the Sahibzadas and Mata Gujri, the shared efforts of these communities underline a profound message: that love and understanding can transcend boundaries, offering hope for future generations to embrace unity in diversity.
