CHENNAI: It was an evening of celebration of diversity and open-mindedness that Islam stands for, at the Eid Milan Party hosted by the Committee of Hosts on Wednesday.
The function saw a large line-up of dignitaries including Gopalkrishna Gandhi, former West Bengal Governor, Nawab Mohammed Abdul Ali, Prince of Arcot, and Governor K Rosaiah besides consul heads of Sri Lanka, Philippines, Australia and Germany among others.
“Sometimes, the intolerant have higher decibels and those, who believe in tolerance and respect, are silent. And at times, voices of suspicion and hatred drown the voices of mutual respect and tolerance. But we must draw comfort during the Iftar time. It may be a recurring ritual, but it is a reassurance that the soul of India is intact that the diversity of India is its strength,” said Gandhi.
“I appeal to people of all faiths to know and understand the values, religious beliefs and feelings of people, and live together like one family. This will go a long way in spreading the right message of humanity. Religious heads of different faiths have a long way to go in the sociopolitical front,” said Prince of Arcot.
He wished all Muslim and non-Muslim brethren assembled at the function and said that he hoped that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s dream of development of the minority community would soon come true.
“Even though we see development in all spheres in the country, we see deterioration in moral and spiritual values, humaneness and compassion. Revitalisation of our ethos of secularism and respect for all faiths will strengthen the Nation’s uniqueness,” said Governor Rosaiah.
A book Islam the Regime of Peace was launched at the programme.
The Eid Milan is hosted by the Committee of Hosts, formed by Dr SK Khadri and members comprising eminent elders from educational, industries and social organisations to honour non-Muslim brethren and spread brotherhood and peace among people of all religions. The event has been taking place for the last 40 years.