Interfaith Cooperation in India: Sikhs and Hindus Join Muslims to Build Mosque in Jakhowali Village

Interfaith Cooperation in India: Sikhs and Hindus Join Muslims to Build Mosque in Jakhowali Village
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In Jakhowali, a village in India’s Punjab state, families from Sikh and Hindu communities have partnered with local Muslims to begin construction of a mosque, reflecting a long-standing tradition of peaceful religious coexistence on the subcontinent.

Previously, Muslims in Jakhowali had to travel to a neighboring village to perform their prayers. With the new mosque under construction, they will now be able to worship within their own community.

According to the Times of India, elder Sikh resident Bibi Rajinder Kaur donated land for the mosque, while Sikh and Hindu families have contributed financially and offered various forms of support alongside the Muslim community.

Former village council head Ajib Singh told the Times of India that interfaith collaboration in building religious sites has long been a feature of local life: Muslims helped during the construction of Hindu temples, and Hindus and Muslims have jointly supported the building of gurdwaras. Bibi Rajinder Kaur added, “We are happy when we see our Muslim friends happy.”

This project is one of many examples of peaceful religious coexistence in India—instances that, while often overshadowed by reports of conflict, have deep historical roots. Historical records show that Mughal emperors and rulers of Awadh consistently supported both Hindu temples and Muslim mosques, mediating disputes when conflicts arose. Even the renowned Hindu ruler Shivaji commissioned a mosque to promote cooperation and harmony among different faiths.

Cultural experts note that such initiatives are not exceptions but part of the subcontinent’s historical tradition and can serve as a contemporary model for fostering mutual respect and empathy among diverse religious communities.

Jakhowali’s mosque construction stands as a living example that kindness, collaboration, and peaceful interfaith coexistence remain vibrant at the heart of Indian society.