Hyderabad: Mohd Chand, Goud Kappa lead the way by example

Hyderabad: People call their friendship the Krishna-Sudama bond. What binds Mr Krishna Goud Kappa and his childhood friend Mr Mohd Chand is their staunch belief that God is one. The friends, both residents of Lal Darwaza in the Old City, have been setting an example of communal harmony and brotherhood for the last twenty years.

This is their twentieth year of installing a Ganapati, organising the celebrations and sharing the expenses.

“Both of us put in whatever is required for purchasing an idol. This year, we installed an eco friendly clay Ganesh,” said Mr Goud. 

“We started this when we were teenagers and continue to do it. Now we are married and have children. Our families also support us,” he said.

Ganesh is installed at Mr Goud’s house. “Rituals are taken care of by my friend Goud and his family. I visit in-between during the 10-day festival and make some offerings to Ganapati. On the final day, I visit their house during early morning hours to make arrangements for immersion,” said Mr Chand.

Once done with prayers and other rituals, the friends along with a few others neighbours, start for Ganesh visarjan. “We go on foot carrying Lord Ganesh on our heads. We would like to continue the tradition as long as we can,” said Mr Goud.

“Through our work we want to spread the message of communal brotherhood and harmony. Festivals are to enjoy and not to spread hatred or do mischief,” Mr Goud added.