Amid rising political divisions and communal tensions across various districts of the state, Bhadreshwar in Kolkata’s adjoining Hooghly district stands as a shining example of religious harmony. In a rare display of unity, a Hindu family has been responsible for maintaining the shrine of Syed Shah Pir since 1967.
For the past 57 years, the Das family of Palpara has been looking after the shrine, ensuring its upkeep with utmost dedication. From cleaning the site twice daily to lighting incense and candles, they have taken care of all responsibilities. This tradition has its roots in history.
About 120 years ago, Bhadreshwar’s Palpara and Hindustan Park were largely forested, with a predominantly Muslim population. Several shrines dedicated to revered Pirs were established in the area. However, following the Partition, waves of migration brought in people from across Bengal and other regions, gradually altering the demographic landscape.
In 1967, Sridhamchandra Das purchased land in Palpara from a Muslim owner, which included the shrine of Syed Shah Pir. Along with the land, he inherited the responsibility of looking after the shrine, a duty that has since been passed down through generations of the Das family. Even today, they continue to maintain the shrine, ensuring it remains a place of devotion. Muslims from nearby areas visit the shrine, especially on occasions like Eid, to offer prayers.
Shukla Das, a member of the family, shared, “My father-in-law bought this land along with the shrine from a Muslim man. Since then, he maintained it with devotion. After his passing, our family continues to serve this Pir. Every year, on January 26, members of the Muslim community visit to pray. Earlier, the shrine was made of clay, but now it has been rebuilt with tin and other materials. Here, Hindus and Muslims are equal. There should never be any division based on caste or religion.”
Other shrines maintained by Hindus in Bhadreshwar
This unique example of communal unity is not limited to just one shrine. Bhadreshwar is home to two other shrines—Manik Shah Peer Baba’s shrine in Hindustan Park and Karim Shah’s shrine near Bhagar in Bhadreshwar Municipality. These too are maintained by local Hindus, who not only look after their upkeep but also contribute financially for their maintenance.
Maulvi Muhammad Salim, who oversees the religious ceremonies at all three shrines, highlighted the historical significance of these sites. “These shrines mark the resting places of pirs who once lived here. Over time, as the Hindustan factory was established and later shut down, the land changed hands, and Hindus became the primary residents of this area. They have always supported the maintenance of these shrines, and we all come together for the annual ceremonies.”
Political perspectives on communal Unity
Despite this longstanding tradition of coexistence, politics continues to cast a shadow over such harmony. Bhadreshwar Municipality Chairman Praloy Chakraborty emphasised, “People of all religions live together peacefully here. There are always a few who try to disrupt this harmony for political gains, but Bhadreshwar has always stood for unity. There are three shrines in the area, and everyone respects them. We believe in standing by each other, as religion never teaches division.”
Hooghly BJP’s organisational district general secretary, Suresh Saw, echoed similar sentiments but added a political perspective. “Hindus have always upheld the values of harmony and coexistence, not just in Bhadreshwar but across India. However, it is unfortunate that Hindus often do not feel safe. That is why we stress unity among Hindus—because only through unity can harmony be preserved," he said.
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