The Successful Formula

Dr. Sultan visited a city where the local Muslims told him that soon, a procession by dedicated Hindus was to take place. They had heard that these Hindus were making extensive preparations and planned to march through the Muslim neighbourhood. Dr. Sultan said, “There is no need to worry. Follow my advice, and there will be no riot here.” He suggested, “On the day of the procession, buy two dozen garlands from the market. When their procession reaches your mosque, come out with the garlands and say to the Hindus leading the procession, ‘We welcome you,’ and then place a garland around each of their necks.” The Muslims did exactly as advised. As a result, the day that could have witnessed Hindu-Muslim clashes turned into a day of Hindu-Muslim unity. Once, while walking on the road near his home in Bangalore, Dr. Sultan was hit by a car driven by a Hindu. Dr. Sultan fell to the ground, sustaining injuries in several places. The Hindu man stopped his car, approached Dr. Sultan, and said, “Please get into my car, and I will take you to the hospital.” Dr. Sultan replied, “You must leave immediately. This is a Muslim area. If the Muslims see you here, they will not let you go without harm.” Insisting firmly, Dr. Sultan sent the man away. From that day on, the Hindu man became Dr. Sultan’s lifelong friend. Dr. Sultan held no hatred for anyone. He saw everyone through love and affection. This is why he succeeded in using the successful approach mentioned earlier. In this world, love is the most powerful weapon, but the ignorant wrongly believe that hatred is the strongest.