During a recent visit to Kerala I came across a sterling example of communal harmony in the capital Thiruvananthapuram. There is a virtual confluence of faiths at Palayam Junction, where a mosque (Palayam Juma Masjid), a temple, and a church that stand in close proximity to each other. This serves as a powerful testament to the city’s commitment to interfaith concord and tolerance. The Palayam Juma Masjid, built in 1813, is not only a significant religious site but also a historical symbol of inclusivity, located next to places of worship from other faiths. People who visit the mosque also often visit the temple and the church to seek blessings for their loved ones proving that God is truly one, whether you call him Ram, Allah or Jesus. In this age of 24×7 communal hate and amplified bigotry Palayam stands out as a beacon of amity. Wish every other town in India could take a page out of Palayam's book.
