Ramzan festivities come to a standstill in Mominpura

By Humera Meryam Hussain :

A buzzing place in Nagpur known for its reverberating energy from morning to late hours has come to a grinding halt. Yes, this is the ever pulsating Mominpura -- more famous as the khau galli of the city. After being declared as a containment zone with the spread of Covid-19 pandemic, Ramzan festivities have received a severe jolt in the area. Right from the shops that were the cynosure of all eyes -- sewaiyan, dates, dryfruits, clothings, shoes -- to the mouth watering delicacies, all face closure bearing the brunt of the grim tale of the present situation. “In my lifespan of 80 years, I have not seen this kind of helplessness over the entire community in the area.

Those engaged in menial jobs are finding it difficult to manage even a two square meal for their families,” says Zafar Anwar, an octogenarian in a painful voice. He further adds, “however, I thank the Almighty that people with resources are standing tall and embracing the needy with open arms in this time of crisis.” An overtly optimistic young businessman and perfume manufacturer, Yusuf Khan’s voice is full of enthusiasm. “This lockdown can be utilised in the best possible way in the form of self-analysis, gaining knowledge through books, enhancing skills, developing a strong bond with family members, old friends and relatives.” He goes on further to say that the struggle for survival is not just limited to Mominpura. The entire world is affected by the pandemic and this is the time to get united and think above caste, creed and colour. However, at the same time Khan explains, “This is resting time for the higher class while on the contrary middle class has been hit the hardest.”

Khan opined that though the business has affected but people in large numbers are helping the hapless with ration kits beyond their capacity setting emulating example for the entire humanity. Mirza Sharique Baig, owner of the famous Babbu Hotel, is also missing the festivity but at the same time feels that festivals are there all year. “This is the time to completely obey the norms of lockdown to contain Covid-19,” he says firmly and adds that from this pandemic the people of Mominpura have to learn many important lessons. Lack of awareness and education is making life a bit difficult here. Talking about the business, Baig discloses that it has come to a big zero for him.

“We have to take up innovative ideas of social distancing and sanitisation to attract customers back to the restaurants. The situation does not seem to normalise in few months, he adds. Moreover, he informs that 80 percent of the food business in the area depends on non-Muslim customers. “If the pandemic is not contained, many food joints will not be able to see the light of the day”, sights Baig. Rizwan Ansari, President of Nagpur City (Distt) Nationalist Congress Party (Minority Deptt), opined that small traders are worst hit in Mominpura. “People waited with bated breath for the arrival of Ramzan as 70 percent of the year’s income was earned through this month.

However, with deserted streets and closed shops the story is completely different this time,” explains Ansari. Moreover, he says, “People from all walks of life used to enjoy the festivities of Ramzan that immensely contributed to the business.” Mohd Farhan, owner Nabeela Dupatta, airs similar views in a grim voice that the business of the entire year is lost after Mominpura was declared a containment zone. However, he informs that many positive patients are recovering and coming back to their homes boosting the morale of the area. On a brighter note, the pandemic has united the entire area where people are pouring all possible help to feed the needy and destitutes. Irrespective of the tight situation, people -- young and old -- are seen asking the helpless for food, clothing and other essentials establishing the fact that humanity still reigns supreme in this odd world!