(Image source from: Quora)
The mega diaspora event ‘Howdy Modi!’ to be held in Houston is imminent and over 50,000 people are expected to attend the community summit, where India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be addressing the huge gathering.
The Indian American Muslim Association of Greater Houston (IMAGH) is one of the major Welcome Partners for the community reception in honor of PM Modi.
Dr. Maqbool Haq, Chairman of the IMAGH Board of Directors said:
We may disagree with each other’s beliefs, practices or ideas, but unless we interact with them in a cordial and friendly atmosphere, we cannot get our point of view across to them.
Growing up in Varanasi - Modiji's Constituency, I always felt I had the same opportunities as everyone else. I am very proud to be both an Indian and a Muslim. So when the duly elected leader of Mother India is visiting my adopted home town, it is my duty to give him a warm welcome.
Indian American Muslim Association of Greater Houston, since its inception, has been aiming to promote harmony, strengthen relationships between religions and cultures.
The mutual support between the Hindu and Muslim organizations in Houston date backs to 2010 when the India Culture Center, which serves as a coordinating link among all major Indian organizations and individuals of Indian origin living in the Greater Houston and vicinity, decided to host an Eid Milan party in collaboration with the Indian Muslim groups.
The event was an instant success and led to the creation of IMAGH to further friendliness across cultures, communities, and religions.
Bhutada, a Houston-based industrialist, adviser to the Hindus of Greater Houston (HGH) and National Vice President of the Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS), United States, said:
We all have historical baggage - let's acknowledge that, but we cannot look backward. We have to look forward and that is the only way we can lead a peaceful life in this world.
Raj Bhalla, who was the Event Chair of the Eid Milan party in 2010, said Houston is proud to have a united happy community that respects interfaith customs and traditions by participating and celebrating Diwali, Holi, Eid, Christmas and Baisakhi, Raj Bhalla, who was the Event Chair of the Eid Milan party in 2010.
Founding president of IMAGH said:
In the community, there are, as there should be, political differences, but that's for private debate. In front of the larger Houston and American community, we have to stand as one.
Dr. Anupam Ray, the Consul General of India in Houston assisted in promoting cooperation by organizing an Iftar party during Ramadan season, for the past four years, where people of different religious beliefs and nationalities were invited to break the fast with Muslims at the end of the day.
According to consulate sources, the Houston community is showing its determination to move forward as one though the efforts may seem feeble in the beginning.
Vijay Pallod, who is on the boards of IMAGH and Hindus of Greater Houston (HGH), says that both the organizations are unique in their role to carry out their missions with respect and understanding for each other.
By Sowmya Sangam
