Aradhna Pandey, TwoCircles.net
Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh): The Bishop House in Varanasi, also known as the Red Church, is more than just a building of bricks and stones. It is a living symbol of humanity, resonating with the melody of love and unity. Each year, this historic church hosts an event that transcends religion and caste, becoming a celebration of shared culture, love and harmony. This year, once again, it organised a grand iftar gathering, where people of different faiths came together to join Muslims break their fast and showcase an exemplary spirit of mutual respect and togetherness.
The Bishop House holds historical significance beyond its Christian roots. It represents the shared culture of Varanasi, bringing together diverse communities for centuries. The church walls echo with the legacies of Premchand, Kabir and Sant Ravidas, nurturing the spirit of secularism.
The iftar gathering at the Red Church became a unique occasion, sending out a powerful message: as the walls of religion crumble, humanity only grows stronger.
A tradition of 40 years
The iftar gathering at the Red Church is not a new initiative. It has been a long-standing tradition for almost 40 years, fostering interfaith harmony. After a brief hiatus during the COVID-19 pandemic, the event resumed in recent years with great enthusiasm.
Participants described the event as a powerful symbol of shared culture. At the conclusion of the gathering, a chant filled the air, adding to the inspiration: “Where conch shells sound and azan is heard, when it comes to unity, let it be India!”
A model of harmony
Though renowned for its historical importance, the true identity of the Bishop House lies in its open-hearted philosophy. While it remains a prestigious centre for the Christian faith, it has never built barriers based on religion, instead serving as a symbol of love and acceptance for all communities. The iftar held here during Ramadan demonstrates that love belongs to no one religion.
The event was more than just a meal; it was a message that India does not merely survive on its diversity — it thrives in it. Maulana Abdul Batin Nomani, the Mufti-e-Banaras, was specially present to lend dignity to the gathering. Bishop Eugene Joseph led the event, highlighting its significance.
“The culture of Varanasi has always been one of unity and love. This city has always carried the message of brotherhood, and today’s event is a continuation of that tradition. It is a matter of pride that Muslim brothers gathered in the courtyard of the Red Church to break their fast. This holy month of Ramadan teaches us patience, faith, and love. We hope that the festival of Eid will also be celebrated with the same joy and brotherhood,” said Maulana Batin, addressing the crowd.
Bishop Joseph described the iftar as a powerful symbol of Varanasi’s shared culture, saying, “This event is not just about breaking the fast, but about colouring ourselves in the hues of humanity. Our goal is to spread the message of mutual love in society. Ramadan is not only for Muslims; it is a month of patience, service, and dedication. When we sit together for a meal, it becomes the most beautiful form of religious unity.”
‘Humanity is above religion’
Dharmvir Singh, the head priest at Nichibagh Gurudwara, viewed the iftar gathering not just as a meal but as a golden opportunity to foster mutual love, respect, and brotherhood.
He appreciated the hospitality of the Red Church, saying, “This event promotes religious harmony and shows that love and brotherhood are the true identity of any society. Guru Nanak Dev Ji taught us to serve beyond caste and creed. The act of Hindus and Sikhs serving food at the iftar embodies this very spirit.”
Socialist leader Athar Jamal Lari called the gathering a “celebration of brotherhood.” “Humans have erected walls of religion, but love, compassion, and service can erase these boundaries. The sense of belonging shown during the iftar sends a message to the world that humanity is the greatest religion. It inspires us to adopt values of unity, equality and humanity, which are essential for building a peaceful and prosperous society.”
Dr. Munija Khan, an activist, emphasised, “When the world is burning in the fire of religious extremism, it is crucial to send a message of love and harmony from Varanasi. This gathering shows that diversity is our strength, not our weakness. At a time when attempts are being made to divide people by erecting religious walls, the Red Church stands as a beacon of light, sending a message to the entire country that true worship, true devotion lies in love, compassion and unity.”
Father Anand remarked, “Fasting is not just about enduring hunger and thirst; it is a month to strengthen the spirit of humanity. When we sit together, relationships grow stronger. This event saw people from Hindu, Muslim, Sikh and Christian communities come together, sending a message of mutual love and brotherhood. During the iftar, Hindus and Sikhs served food, which became an example of social unity.”
Activist Haji Ishtiaq stated, “Iftar is not just for Muslims, it is a lesson for anyone who believes in love, peace, and brotherhood. Varanasi is proving once again that it is not just a city of temples and mosques, but a city of love, unity, and humanity. During Ramadan, Muslims help the needy through Zakat (charity) and Sadqa (almsgiving). Inviting the poor and the helpless to iftar and sharing a meal fosters a spirit of cooperation and charity in society.”
A canvas of shared culture
Educator Mohammad Arif described the event as a “confluence of values.” “Iftar is not just a religious ritual, but a bridge of mutual love. The message of unity and brotherhood should reach every home and heart. The tradition of iftar is a symbol of brotherhood, cooperation, charity, and respect for cultural diversity in society.”
Activist Farman Haider remarked, “Varanasi’s culture is inherently one of unity. This city breathes shared culture, and the iftar at the Red Church is a living example of that.”
The iftar at Bishop House once again proved that Varanasi is a centre for harmony and coexistence. This event became a symbol not only of religious tolerance but also of mutual love and respect as the foundation for a strong society.
(Aradhna Pandey is an independent journalist.)