Magadh region, adjacent to Patna, the capital of Bihar, is known for history and culture. But there is a story in this area that touches the heart. There is no Muslim population in Madi village here, yet mosques are still alive and the voice of Ajan resonates every day.
These mosques are not just buildings, but are examples of social unity and brotherhood.
Centuries old mosque, villagers love
Mosques of Madi village are several decades old. To save their legacy, the common people of the village, including many Hindus, have come forward. These people feed their family by working daily wage, but they have taken up the responsibility of taking care of the mosque. Everyone is surprised to see their hard work and dedication.
Ajay Paswan: True servants of the mosque
About 80 km from Patna, there is Madi village in Bihar Sharif in Nalanda district. Through wide paths, when you reach the bumpy roads of the village, the dome of a 200-year-old mosque is visible from a distance. Here you meet Ajay Paswan, who smiles while sweeping the mosque verandah. He says, “My heart says that I should serve the mosque. Do not eat food, but they will definitely do this work.”
Ajay also has two friends Bakhauri Bind and Gautam Prasad with Ajay. All three do wages, but the care of the mosque is the greatest religion for them.
Story started 15 years ago
The story began 15 years ago, when Ajay and his friends were passing by the mosque. At that time there were forests and shrubs around the mosque. Ajay says, “We felt that Allah’s house should be cleaned. We cleaned the forest, made a floor, painted. Then thought that the mosque should be brightened, then started burn. Incense sticks.
He raised all the expenses from his pocket. Ajay says, “Perhaps Allah wanted to get us done this work, and we did it.”
Story of 200 year old mosque
No Muslim families live in Madi village now. The Muslim families gradually left the village after the riots during the India-Pakistan partition. According to the villagers, this mosque is about 200 years old. It also has a tomb, where people come to salute before starting auspicious work.
Kusum Devi, who lives next to the mosque, says, “There is no Muslim in the village, but this does not mean that the mosque should be left like this. We all take care of it together. Any auspicious work is there, first of all, bow here, then the goddess goes to worship at the place.”
Masjid maintenance at its own expense
Ajay Paswan earns a wage of Rs 500 daily. He and his friends themselves bear all the expenses of the maintenance of the mosque. He says, “We do not take anything from the villagers. If a guest comes and gives 50-100 rupees, then the matter is different. My mother, wife, children also support me in this work, because this is the work of religion.”