Eidgah With Unique Hindu Link in Kanpur

Inside View of Badi Eidgah Kanpur 

Dr.Mazhar Naqvi

Over 150- years old Badi Eidgah of Kanpur is indeed a perfect example of communal harmony. The sprawling Eidgah where more than 3 Lakh devotees assemble to offer prayers on Eid-ul-Fitr day has been under the care of a Hindu family for about eight decades. Located near Bajaria locality, the Eidgah is looked after by Bablu Kori (55).He was born inside Eidgah about 55 years ago. Prior to him, his father Mahaveer used to take care of Eidgah. Most of the trees inside Idgah were planted by Mahaveer. Bablu stays with his mother inside Idgah in a house given by the managing committee. The family proudly talks about   their three generation association with Eidgah. Bablu specifically mentions about the love and respect he gets from the managing committee members and devotees as well.’ I have never been ill-treated by anyone till date. I am just a caretaker but everyone respects me.” Bablu says.

His mother Daulat Devi (75) also has similar experiences to share .She recalled with emotion as to how the trustees of the managing committee had helped her in solemnising marriage of her two daughters. She also expresses her gratitude repeatedly to the trustees who had earmarked all the income emanating from fruits from the trees inside Eidgah for her family. Daulat says “I had landed in Idgah after my marriage with Mahaveer. Initially, I found it to be quite perplexing as to why Mahaveer was staying amidst the graves inside Eidgah but soon I also developed a bond with the place and now I wish to die here only.” She also revealed that her family has been celebrating Holi and Deepawali festivals inside Idgah and no one ever raised any objection. She also finds Idgah has a safe place to live. “Even during communal riots, the peace and tranquility of Eidgah never shattered and no trouble monger could ever muster courage to cast an ugly glance towards Eidgah” she adds.

Photograph of Hindu Family that Looks After Eiddgah 

Neither Daulat nor Bablu has forgotten Qari Muhammad Ilahi Saheb who was Imam of Eidgah.” He was a noble soul and very pious. He led the Eid prayers for many years. Unfortunately, he died last year at the age of 83.We will miss him during Eid prayers”, they said.

Bablu even claimed that Kanpur’s Eidgah was perhaps only of its kind in India as nowhere else an Eidgah is looked after by a Non-Muslim family. He is also of the view that Eidgah is most eco-friendly in view of trees inside it.’ I have seen other Idgahs but they are devoid of greenery that Kanpur one boasts of”.(References available on request. Photo Courtesy Google Images )