When it comes to unity and communal harmony, Varapur in Sivaganga district has set standards worthy of emulation.
Once a year, hundreds of Hindus and Muslims come together in this tiny hamlet to participate in a 10-day, inter-religious get-together.
During the celebrations, Hindus and Muslims undertake a combined fire-walking for communal harmony and unity. `Pathunombu' or `Pookkuzhi Tiruvizha' is a low-key affair as the locals believe that publicity will attract unwanted elements to the village. Even religious heads and political leaders are not invited and photography is strictly prohibited.
On the final day, the Hindus offer `namaz', following all Islamic rituals, and offer sugar to others. In turn, the Muslims offer worship with flowers. "We are as good as relatives and address one another as `mapillai' (son-in-law) or `mama' (uncle)," says K. Rajaram, a native of the village who is running a hotel in Madurai.
`Pookkuzhi Tiruizha' has protected Varapur and its surroundings from natural calamities and outbreak of diseases for over 100 years now, he claimed.
A festival committee is constituted every year and equal representation given to all communities. Donations are collected from every family, including those residing in a 25-km radius of Varapur. Outsiders throng the village on the penultimate day to have a feel of the prevailing communal harmony.
According to the locals, Varapur witnessed the worst-ever famine about 125 years ago, amid frequent clashes between two groups. The rulers then hit upon the idea of forging unity, by organising an inter-religious festival.
The first `Pookkuzhi Tiruvizha' was organised by a king in front of his palace, and Muslims and Hindus walked on fire for a common cause. The event produced results and brought rains, forcing the villagers to stick to the tradition. Though the venue remains unchanged even today, the massive structure is in a dilapidated state with hardly any fund available for renovation. Agriculture being the major occupation of Varapur, men work on fields. ``For decades, no incident of murder or robbery had been reported here.''
``Small disputes are settled by the village head, who is usually the chairman of the festival committee," says Azhagusundaram of Varapur, who runs a canteen in Madurai. The recent `Pookuzhi Tiruvizha' concluded last week, coinciding with Moharrum. Natives of Varapur, including those residing in other parts of the State and country, participated. They believe that the deity would punish them if they abstain.
Interestingly, all through the 10 days, no `puja' or `archana' is performed. The only religious activity is a silent namaz by the Hindus and a floral tribute to the formless presiding deity by the Muslims.