Hindus and Muslims come together for Dussehra in Odisha's Balasore

The holy festival of Dussehra signifies the hope and faith in the victory of good over evil. The festival reinforces the belief that no matter how formidable evil may seem, the forces of good will ultimately prevail.

Mostly considered a Hindu festival, Dussehra is celebrated with great fervour every year across the country. However, in this Odisha district, Dussehra is the celebration of brotherhood and unity. Not just Hindus, but Muslims here also play a great role in Dussehra. 

Yes, you read that right! In Odisha’s Balasore, not just Hindus, but people from the Muslim community celebrate Dussehra. We are talking about Dussehra celebrations in Balasore’s Arad Bazar. Unlike other places, people from both Hindu and Muslim communities welcome Maa Durga together in this area. Not just one or two, this unity has been going on for the last 47 years.

The holy festival unites people, irrespective of caste, religion and status. As the name suggests, Dussehra is the celebration of brotherhood, no matter what religion or caste you are from. People of both communities come together to worship Maa Durga. Not only Dussehra, but people from both communities also join hands during the celebration of Eid and Muharram and many other festivals.

For people here, the festival strengthens the spirit and doctrine of unity in diversity.

It is that time of year for reflection, tradition, and community as people come together to remember the heroic deeds of Lord Rama and the significance of righteousness.

“This is Balasore Arad Bazar. Not just Dussehra, we celebrate Eid, Muharram, and other festivals together. There is no Hindu-Muslim, we are all brothers and united here,” a Hindu local said.

Similarly, a Muslim local added, “This is a message to the society that we should always be together as brothers and sisters. It is our unity in diversity that together makes India great. There is no differentiation or odd feelings here. The atmosphere here is only filled with love, devotion, and unity.”