Communal amity: 'Namaz' in UP temple

In an example of Hindu-Muslim unity, a group of Muslims offered 'namaz' (prayer) at a Shiva temple in Uttar Pradesh's Bulandshahar district, about 500 kilometre from Lucknow, on Sunday.

According to reports, a group of Muslims were returning home after participating in a religious meet, attended by thousands of their community members. The group was caught in a jam.

The members of the group were desperately looking for a suitable place for offering 'zuhr' (namaz offered at midday) prayer as it was time for the same.

Sensing their desperation, some Hindus from the nearby Jounpur village suggested to their Muslim brethren that they could offer the prayer at the Shiva Temple, which was very close to which they agreed readily.

The gates of the temple were opened and arrangements were made for the prayer, reports said adding that around one hundred Muslims offered prayers at the temple and its adjoining 'dharamshala' (inn).

They were also offered sweets and water after the prayer before they departed for their respective destinations.

''It does not make any difference. Every one is free to follow his religion. Muslims are our brothers. It was good that we could help them,'' a local villager in Jounpur said.