For several decades in Nagarpur, Tangail, followers of two major religions have been practising their faith side by side in the same compound, free from conflict and rich in mutual respect.
Over fifty-seven years ago, the central Durga temple—established in memory of Ojha Thakur and Harnath at the Nagarpur Chowdhury residence—became a place of regular worship for the local Sanatan (Hindu) community. Around six decades ago, the Nagarpur Central Jame Mosque and adjoining Eidgah ground were built immediately beside the temple courtyard. From that time onwards, devotees of both faiths have carried out their religious practices in harmony, sharing the same grounds without dispute.
Locals explain that the spirit of understanding is deeply rooted. As soon as the call to prayer (azan) begins, the sound of conch shells, drums and other musical instruments used in Hindu rituals stops immediately, and remains silent until the prayer is completed. In return, when Hindu devotees are engaged in puja, the Muslim worshippers refrain from any religious activities other than the obligatory prayers. Visitors who come to view the idols during festivals often rest or gather in the mosque courtyard, reflecting the long-standing comfort between the two communities.
During Ramadan, daily prayers and Hindu puja are all observed in the same shared space without inconvenience to either side. Hindus and Muslims in the area stand shoulder to shoulder in safeguarding both the mosque and the temple. They stress that in all these years, not only has there never been any violence, but there has also not been a single reported quarrel.
Communities leaders and residents are firmly committed to preserving this bond of fraternity and harmony for generations to come.
During his visit to a Durga Puja pavilion in Nagarpur, Tangail Superintendent of Police Md Mizanur Rahman expressed admiration at witnessing two places of worship functioning peacefully within the same premises.
Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Arafat Mohammad Noman remarked, “Had I not been posted here, I might never have believed it. One must be truly humane and tolerant to allow a mosque and a temple to stand together in the same courtyard for so many years. There are no complaints from anyone; they have always supported one another. This is an example for all people and all religions.”
