In the desert town of Mithi is longstanding. Partab Shivani, a 48-year-old Hindu who fasts during Ramazan, organizes Iftar gatherings each year to promote interfaith harmony. “First, we are humans — religions came later,” he told AFP. Shivani also studies the teachings of Buddha, emphasizing peace and solidarity.
Mir Muhammad Buledi, who attends the Iftar gatherings, called the events “a beautiful example of harmony between the two communities.”
Mithi’s population of around 60,000 is predominantly Hindu, though 96 percent of Pakistan’s population is Muslim. Many Hindus in the city participate in fasting and join their Muslim neighbours for Iftar. Local politician Sushil Malani said, “We celebrate Eid together as well. This tradition in the region is very old.”
The town’s peaceful coexistence is attributed to its remote location in the Tharparkar desert and shared cultural traditions. At two Sufi shrines, Hindu families arrange meals with fruit, juices, and other dishes for Muslims to break their fast.
Mohan Lal Malhi, who oversees one of the shrines, said his elders taught him to respect people regardless of religion or colour. “You will see a gurdwara, a mosque and a shrine standing side by side here. The atmosphere of this area teaches humanity,” he said.
Residents note that social relationships take precedence over religious identity in Mithi, making it a rare example of interfaith solidarity amid broader regional tensions.
Photos taken on February 26–27, 2026, show Hindu and Muslim men preparing and sharing Iftar meals inside the city’s Sufi shrines, highlighting the communal spirit during the Islamic holy month.
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