This was demonstrated on Oct. 17 when more than 200 Hindus, Muslims and Christian gathered to celebrate a religious festival at the Radha Krishna Temple in Chalan Kanoa.
Dubbed “Nabo Ratri – Sri Sri Durga Puja,” the Hindu festival was celebrated on four consecutive days in honor of the Goddess Durga.
The festival started on Oct. 14 and ended on Oct. 17 with worship and immersion as well as a cultural program.
The Bangladesh cultural group led by Rakibul “Mintu” Islam presented traditional and religious music while cultural Hindu dances were performed by members of the local Hindu community.
Food was served: biryani, fried rice with spices, luchi or deep fried flatbread, mixed vegetables, bhaji, dal and other delectable Indian dishes.
For Hindus, the observance of Bijoya Dashami is a way of re-affirming their belief that in the struggle between good and evil, good will always emerge victorious, said Ranjit Barai, a member of the Hindu community.
Bimal C. Sutradhar, the Hindu community general secretary, was impressed with the turnout of this year celebration.
Madhav S. Hamelani, the group’s president, and Anand Katta, its treasurer, emphasized the solemnity of their gathering.
Rabby Syed, a Muslim who attended the festival, said: “We are very thankful to have this opportunity to celebrate a religious event. It only shows that the indigenous people of the island support us. We can work together and make a difference.”
