Srinagar, Aug 08 (KB): Laying the foundation stone in the dynamic streets of Ali Kadal in Srinagar , the Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir, Umar Farooq, was laying its base of Masjid Sharief Haji Abdul Salam Qalandar.
A journalist was before me, covering this red-letter day, where hope and unity for this collective was visibly seen. The Mirwaiz’s speech was a compelling mix of the traditional and modern. It was not only a traditional speech but a rallying cry to the community.
His focus was on the need for solidarity among Muslims, urging that all and sundry should live together with a single purpose.
But the best fought for message was his call about the places for the women inside the mosque. He argued that mosques must not only be places of worship but should represent the values of pluralism and respect for all others.
Silent amen corners nodded, and the murmurs of approval from the crowd said his words were striking chords. This new mosque was about more than bricks and mortar; it was a beacon of what the community could do when it moved forward together in perfect uniformity with the principles of gender equity.
As the ceremony was concluded and the first stone set, the project assumed an obligation to transcend the mere establishment of a new place of worship, transforming into a flamboyant symbol of advancement and all-embracing nature. It was a day of joy and an opportunity for reflection on the future to all involved—a new chapter in the rich history tapestry of Ali Kadal.— (KB)
