Ramazan fosters interfaith harmony between Hindus and Muslims in Sindh’s Mithi

MITTHI: In the town of Mithi, located in Sindh’s Tharparkar district, the holy month of Ramazan is bringing together members of the Hindu and Muslim communities, highlighting a tradition of interfaith solidarity.

Partab Shivani, a 48-year-old Hindu social activist, has observed fasting during Ramazan on and off for several years. This year, however, he is fasting for the entire month. Shivani and his friends in Mithi organize Iftar gatherings each year to promote peace and unity between the two religious communities.

Speaking to AFP, Shivani said, “I believe we need to promote interfaith harmony. First, we are humans — religions came later.” He also shared that he reads the teachings of Buddha, noting, “His message is about peace and ending war. Peace can spread through solidarity and by standing with one another. Distance only widens the gap between people.”

A photograph taken on February 26, 2026, shows Mohan Lal Malhi, a Hindu caretaker of a Sufi shrine, breaking his fast during Ramazan in Mithi. The image reflects the spirit of cooperation and mutual respect that characterizes the town.

Mithi is home to around 60,000 residents, and the majority of Pakistan’s Hindu population—about two percent of the national population—lives in rural areas of Sindh. In Mithi, interfaith gatherings and shared observances during Ramazan have become a symbol of the community’s commitment to peaceful coexistence.

These efforts by local residents aim to bridge divides and foster understanding, demonstrating how religious observances can serve as opportunities for building stronger community ties.