The Serene Presence of Chittian Masjidan
Nestled in the quaint village of Mahadian, near the historic city of Sirhind in Punjab, stands the Chittian Masjidan, fondly known as the White Mosque. Despite bearing remnants of a brighter past in its disrepair, this Mughal-era mosque exudes a sense of serenity and resilience.
The Unique Guardian of the Mosque
What sets Chittian Masjidan apart is its guardian – the granthi of the neighbouring gurdwara. Despite the painful history between Sikhism and the mosque, the granthi diligently maintains the mosque, ensuring its upkeep and periodic whitewashing. This unique display of communal harmony serves as a beacon of tolerance and coexistence.
The Mosque and Gurdwara’s Journey to Reconciliation
The mosque and the Mastgarh Sahib Chittian gurdwara share a complex history marred by tragic events, including the issuance of a fatwa for the death of Guru Gobind Singh’s sons. However, despite this violent past, both religious institutions have embraced reconciliation. The gurdwara, which had been housed within the mosque for nearly a century, is now being shifted to its own premises, marking a symbolic step towards healing wounds and fostering understanding.
Embracing Diversity in Worship
Despite its association with a painful chapter in Sikh history, Chittian Masjidan remains a symbol of communal harmony. The granthi’s commitment to cleaning the mosque twice a day, coupled with the open invitation for worshippers of all faiths, reflects a spirit of inclusivity and respect for diversity in worship.
The Historic Legacy of Chittian Masjidan
Dating back to the Mughal era, Chittian Masjidan is a testament to architectural grandeur and cultural heritage. While its glazed tile work has faded over time, the mosque continues to stand as a silent witness to centuries of history. Its resilience in the face of adversity and its enduring message of peace serve as a reminder of the importance of preserving our shared heritage.
A Message of Respect and Coexistence
In a world often divided by religious tensions and sectarian strife, the story of Chittian Masjidan and its guardian offers a ray of hope. Through their actions, they demonstrate that respect, understanding, and coexistence are not only possible but essential for fostering harmony and unity in our diverse society. As the guardian, Jeet Singh, aptly states, the continued use of the mosque’s existing name sends a powerful message of respect and inclusivity to all.
#ChittianMasjidan #CommunalHarmony #DiversityInWorship #SharedHeritage
Add comment