Nasim Khan. Picture by Bhola Prasad

Jamshedpur, Nov. 3: Clad in white kurta and lungi, a man in his early sixties walking up and down the Kharkai ghats exchanging pleasantries or issuing hurried instructions is a common sight on Chhath.

Meet Nasim Khan, the friendly neighbour who plays host to thousands of devotees in Jugsalai during the festival every year.

Khan and his small army of volunteers — all from the minority community — break religious barriers to ensure the comfort and safety of chhathvratis. They make elaborate arrangements so that when the devotees break their fast after two long days there is not the slightest scope of discomfort.

This tradition of greeting the chhathvratis with food and beverage dates back to a decade.

“Thousands of devotees cross the Idgah Maidan near my house to reach the banks of Kharkai. Their faith and dedication calls for respect. We offer whatever we can to make them feel a little more comfortable,” said Khan.

The volunteers offer the devotees fruits, sweets, tea and sherbet. They also see to it that the chhathvratis face no problem while offering prayers to the sun god.

“We ensure that everyone gets a chance to perform the rituals,” said one of Khan’s relatives, also part of the group of volunteers.

The annual profit Khan’s readymade garment shop makes comes in handy during Chhath.

Family members and friends rustle up some funds as well. “Our efforts have paid off. These days we also get support from local residents. My family is growing,” the elderly man grins.

On why he and his family members extend a helping hand to chhathvratis, Khan said: “It is believed that Hindus and Muslims cannot stand each other. This is a myth. While we take part in Chhath and Diwali, our Hindu neighbours wish us on Id. The love and understanding is mutual. We want to create a better environment.”

Khan said stray incidents of violence during Ram Navami or Durga Puja often mar the spirit of harmony.

“But the truth is that small acts such as this can change the way people think about Hindus and Muslims,” he said.

For local Hindu families, Chhath is never complete without Nasim Khan.

“I have been coming to this ghat for the past two years and have always been overwhelmed by what Khan and his men have done for us. We are grateful to him,” said Shardananda Awasthi, a resident.