Nargis, a young Muslim girl from Moradabad, has embraced Sanatana Dharma, motivated by respect, security, and a deep appreciation for Sanatana Dharma. Her voluntary Ghar Wapsi took place at the Agastya Muni Ashram in Bareilly, where she underwent a purification ceremony before marrying her friend Munesh amidst traditional Vedic chants. Nargis, whose real name has been changed for security reasons, described her decision to convert as a deeply personal choice without external pressure. Growing up in a Muslim family, Nargis encountered numerous challenges and issues that troubled her. Among these were the practices of triple talaq and Halala, which she found oppressive and unjust.
The environment in her community increasingly felt restrictive, and she began to seek alternatives. Her quest for a different way of life led her to cross paths with Munesh, a resident of Sirohi village in Bareilly. Their initial meeting blossomed into a deep friendship, during which Munesh introduced her to the principles and values of Sanatana Dharma.
Nargis found herself drawn to the respect and security embedded within Sanatana Dharma. Unlike her experiences within her Islamic upbringing, she saw in Sanatana Dharma a culture that revered women and provided a sense of safety. These newfound values resonated with her deeply, prompting her decision to convert.
Expressing her desire to embrace Sanatana Dharma, Nargis approached the Agastya Muni Ashram. She presented proof of her adulthood, a necessary step to ensure her decision was made independently. Acharya Pandit KK Shankhdhar, the head of the ashram, conducted her purification ceremony, officially welcoming her into the fold of Sanatana Dharma. Following this, Nargis and Munesh were married according to Vedic customs, marking the beginning of their life together.
The Agastya Muni Ashram has played a pivotal role in the lives of many girls like Nargis. Acharya Shankhdhar has facilitated the Ghar Wapsi of numerous Muslim girls seeking to voluntarily embrace Sanatana Dharma. He emphasises that the ashram provides a safe space for these girls to explore their new faith without pressure or inducement.
Acharya Shankhdhar explained that the beauty and sanctity of Sanatan Dharma, coupled with the respect for women inherent in Hindu culture, attract many girls to have Ghar Wapsi. The acharya noted that these conversions are entirely voluntary, driven by the girls’ admiration for the values and customs they find in Sanatana Dharma.
Despite her newfound faith and happiness, Nargis faces significant challenges. She has voiced concerns about threats from fundamentalist elements within her former community. Fearing for her safety, she has chosen not to reveal her real name to the media, underscoring the potential risks associated with her Ghar Wapsi.
Acharya Shankhdhar has expressed similar concerns, acknowledging the threats faced by those who leave Islam to embrace Hinduism. However, he remains committed to providing a haven for these girls, ensuring they can practice their new faith without fear.
Nargis’s Ghar Wapsi is part of a broader movement within Bareilly and its surrounding districts, where many Muslim girls are choosing to adopt Sanatana Dharma. The trend, driven by personal experiences and a desire for a more respectful and secure environment, highlights the growing appeal of Sanatana Dharma’s values.
The number of girls embracing Sanatana Dharma in Bareilly alone is notably high. The Agastya Muni Ashram has become a focal point for this movement, with many girls seeking Acharya Shankhdhar’s guidance and support in their journey to Sanatana Dharma.
