Naubatpur (Uttar Pradesh), Sep 17 - This story stands out as an exemplar of Hindu-Muslim brotherherhood in communally trying times. Every year during Ramzan, a temple in this village becomes the hub of activity. Muslims assemble in its premises, offer namaz and then break their fast with a feast prepared by their Hindu friends.

The Sankatmochan temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman in this village in Chandauli district, about 300 km from the state capital Lucknow, is believed to be over 150 years old and has been witnessing this secular tradition since time immemorial, say locals. Naubatpur has a population of nearly 3,000 people, of which about 800 are Muslims.

'Serving Muslims during the holy month gives us a unique sense of satisfaction and, in a way, we also get associated with Ramzan that teaches spirituality, honesty, modesty, non-violence, patience and self-reformation,' Indrajeet Pandey, a 48-year-old resident of Naubatpur, told IANS.

'We really take pride to have such a temple in our village that displays the perfect blend of secular values,' added a proud Alakh Narayan Singh, a social worker in the village.

Muslims come to offer the evening namaz at the temple gallery, which is outside the sanctum sanctorum but within the premises.