What an Innovative Way To Spread the Message of Fraternity and Peace!

A masjid darshan or a mosque tour was organized by Masjid-e-Bilal, a mosque in Bengaluru last month for visitors across all religions. The response was very encouraging as over 2,000 people gathered at the mosque between 4 pm and 8 pm.  During the four-hour session, mosque tour guides took the guests on a tour of the mosque. The event was the brainchild of members of Muhammad for Mankind, a student and youth organisation and its aim was to spread a message of fraternity among people. Tauseef Ahmed, one of the organisers said that people have preconceived notions about institutions such as mosques and madrasas, owing to what they come across in popular media. This event comprised a Q&A session to clear any such doubts. A prayer session was also organized where people got an opportunity to watch live prayers and know more about the religion. He added that the show featured artefacts like antique cameras and ancient medical instruments, as well as conversations about Islam's contributions to the world, including mathematics and coffee. Although organizing such programmes require a lot of effort and planning including seeking permission and authorisation from Jumma Masjid Trust Board, Ahmed said that they are all very eager to host such programmes again.