Mordili Laal: What one man’s vision can accomplish

He is nominated as Pandit by his community and serves in a temple in walled city

BAHAWALPUR: In an era where religious extremism has taken toll and people from different religions lack tolerance to accommodate and share each others beliefs, one man stood up to face the odds and showed the world the strong bond of inter-faith harmony.

Mordili Laal, a Hindu by religion and a carpenter by profession, has been living with the Muslim community for decades in Fareed Gate inside the walled city of Bahawalpur. He is also nominated as the leader by his community and serves as the Pandit in a temple which is situated in the vicinity.

While narrating his lifelong journey to The Express Tribune, Laal said, “At the time of the partition, my father told me that we would not go back to India because our family was respected by our Muslim brothers.” He added, “Despite having a house in India my father preferred to live here.”

He maintained, “We live with Muslims, who respect our faith and religion. We have never faced any discrimination from our Muslims brothers.” He said, “I also teach my community to live peacefully and respect other religions.”



Mordili Laal said they respect each other’s religious obligations and events. He said Muslims of his area participate in Holi and bring sweets on their occasions. “We also respect Islam and during Ramazan, we avoid eating in front of our Muslim brothers who fast.”

Mordili Laal’s neighbour Ayaz Khan told The Express Tribune that he enjoys good relations with him and respects Mordili Laal for his dedication towards his community. He added, “I have witnessed their marriages and religious events and never had issues or complaints of any sort.”

He pointed out they have been living peacefully in the same area and even their families have good relations with each other. Ayaz said, “I knew Laal for a long time and he is always keen about inquiring the well being of others.”

Another resident of the area Muhammad Saleem said, “We have been living in the same street as Mordili Laal and he is a great person to have in the neighborhood.” He maintained, “He and his family urge everyone to respect each other despite discrimination of colour, cast and creed.”

“Mordili Laal visits his fellow Muslim friends on Eid to greet them while he also shares the sorrows and happiness of the people.”

He further said Mordili Laal’s loving nature, urge to help those in need and respect for other religions has made him a remarkable person.

Published in The Express Tribune, June 7^th, 2017.