Hindus, Muslims protected ancient temple after fall of Sheikh Hasina
What's the story
After the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government in Bangladesh, Hindus and Muslims came together to protect the ancient Dhakeswari Temple in Dhaka, the temple's priest told PTI.
Ashim Maitro, a priest at the temple for 15 years, said he looks at the shrine of 'Maa Dhakeswari' as a symbol of religious and communal harmony.
The temple is surrounded by several mosques, creating an atmosphere where the sounds of temple bells often blend with the sound of azaan.
Spiritual refuge
Dhakeswari Temple: A sanctuary for all faiths
"People of many religions come here to pray. And, Maa (Goddess) is mother to all humans whether it is Hindus, Muslims, Christians or Buddhists. They come here to seek solace, prosperity and mental peace," Maitro shared.
Maitro stated that he was in the temple on August 5, when anti-government rallies reached their peak.
When Hasina left the nation, "no visitor was here," he said, adding that there was also "no police force" at the time because everything was in disarray.
Official visit
Interim government's visit to Dhakeswari Temple
Following the dissolution of Parliament and the establishment of an interim government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, security has been gradually restored at the temple premises.
On August 13, Yunus visited the Dhakeswari Temple and interacted with distressed Hindu community members.
Maitro recalled, "Yes, I was there when he visited temple. They welcomed him (Yunus) with beating of 'dhak,' and I and other priests brought him to pay respect to deity."
Restored security
Dhakeswari Temple now sees regular police deployment
After the formation of the interim government, police personnel have been gradually deployed at the temple premises.
Maitro confirmed that "police is now here day and night."
He also noted that about 1,000 people visit the temple on an average per day.
The priest's message to the Indian government is that "we remain well in Bangladesh" and to Hindu community of India he said "We are brothers" and peace must prevail.