In Chennai, the Sufidar Temple has upheld a 40-year tradition of serving Iftar meals to fasting Muslims during Ramadan, fostering interfaith harmony and compassion. Founded by Dada Ratanchand, a Hindu refugee from Sindh, the temple collaborates with volunteers from both Hindu and Muslim communities to prepare meals for 1,200 people daily.
These meals are respectfully served at Wallajah Masjid, showcasing India’s secular ethos. Community leaders, including Prince Nawab Abdul Ali of Arcot, have praised this initiative for promoting peace and unity.
A Temple’s Timeless Gesture of Harmony
Located in Mylapore, Chennai, the Sufidar Temple has become a beacon of interfaith unity through its enduring tradition of hosting Iftar meals during Ramadan. Every morning at 7:30 AM, volunteers from diverse backgrounds gather to prepare vegetarian dishes such as fried rice, biryani, vegetable pickles, saffron-infused milk, and fresh fruits.
By evening, the meals are transported to Wallajah Masjid in cargo vans and served by 60-70 volunteers donning traditional Muslim skull caps-a gesture of respect for Islamic customs.
Prince Nawab Abdul Ali of Arcot commended the initiative, stating, “In a secular country like India, everyone should respect each other’s religions… We must show the world that we are one.” His words encapsulate the essence of this noble practice that transcends religious boundaries and nurtures communal harmony.
Rooted in History and Spirituality
The tradition was initiated by Dada Ratanchand, who migrated from Sindh during the Partition of 1947 and sought refuge in Chennai. Ratanchand’s deep spirituality inspired him to establish the Sufidar Temple to propagate the teachings of Shehanshah Baba Nebhraj Sahib, a revered Sufi saint from Sindh. The temple’s walls reflect its inclusive ethos, adorned with images of spiritual figures from various faiths-Sufi saints, Hindu sages, Jesus Christ, Mother Mary, Guru Nanak, Sikh Gurus, Sai Baba, and leaders from Radhaswami and Chidakashi sects.
The tradition of serving Iftar meals began when members of the Arcot royal family visited the temple and were impressed by its cleanliness and arrangements. Entrusting Ratanchand with this responsibility marked the beginning of a practice that continues uninterrupted to this day.
Founders’ Legacy and Volunteer Spirit
Dada Ratanchand’s vision has evolved into a movement sustained by dedicated volunteers like Ramdev. After Ratanchand’s passing, Ramdev left his automobile business to commit himself fully to this service. He shared his motivation: “I couldn’t dedicate much time earlier due to my shop. Now I devote myself entirely to this noble cause.” Volunteers from across India-including Maharashtra and Rajasthan-join hands with locals in Chennai to uphold this tradition.
Ramdev supervises operations with meticulous care. “All gods are one,” he often reminds volunteers while ensuring food preparation adheres to hygiene standards. The meals are packed into paper plates and distributed promptly before sunset at Wallajah Masjid.
Jamila, a regular beneficiary who works near the mosque, expressed her gratitude: “Since my house is far away, I break my fast here after work before heading home.”
Community Impact: A Model for Religious Harmony
The Sufidar Temple’s initiative extends beyond feeding people-it fosters understanding and builds bridges between communities. Volunteers bond over shared tasks while learning about each other’s traditions. Priya, a volunteer from Chennai, remarked, “Cooking together has made us closer; we share laughter while preparing meals.” Ahmed added, “This is more than just food; it’s about sharing love and respect.”
The collaboration between Hindus and Muslims exemplifies how acts of kindness can dissolve barriers and promote unity in diversity.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
The story of Sufidar Temple is a shining example of how compassion can transcend religious divides and inspire communal harmony. In today’s world often marked by polarisation, initiatives like these remind us that love and kindness are universal values that bind us together. This tradition not only nourishes bodies but also nurtures hearts with its message of coexistence.
As we celebrate this incredible act of service and unity, we invite our readers to reflect: How can we contribute to fostering similar traditions in our communities? Share your thoughts below—let’s continue this dialogue on building a more inclusive society!
