Koppal: In a moment that reaffirms the universality and inclusive spirit of Sanatana Dharma, a Muslim woman has been meditating for over a week at the revered Gavisiddeshwara Mutt in Koppal, a centuries-old Hindu spiritual center widely regarded as the “Kumbh Mela of the South.” Her quiet and devoted presence in front of the Nagadev murti has become a subject of deep reflection and inspiration for many devotees who visit the math daily.
Hasina Begum, a mid-day meal cook from Kudremuthi village in Yelburga taluk, has chosen the sanctified premises of this Hindu religious institution for spiritual solace. For the last eight days, she has been walking to the mutt, paying respects to the Swamiji, and sitting in silent meditation for an hour every day — right in front of Nagadev, the serpent deity venerated by Shaivites and devotees of Basavanna alike.
What makes Hasina’s act significant is not merely her religious identity, but her unwavering belief in the spiritual strength of the Hindu math. “I have trusted the saints of Gavi Mutt for the past 13 years. I worship Nagappa and Basavanna. My children and I are blessed because of their guidance,” Hasina told the media with folded hands.
The Gavisiddeshwara Mutt, deeply rooted in Veerashaiva and Shaiva traditions, stands as a symbol of Karnataka’s spiritual heritage. It is not merely a place of worship, but a center of Dharma, education, and philosophical contemplation. That a non-Hindu woman chooses to meditate here underscores the inclusive and universal nature of Hinduism, which has historically opened its doors to seekers from all backgrounds.
“All religions are ultimately one. The path may differ, but the destination is peace. My grandfather (Swamiji) told me to meditate here when I was suffering emotionally. Since then, I’ve found only peace at the feet of the divine,” she said, sitting in serene posture under the shade of the math’s sacred banyan tree.
Hasina’s meditation has resonated not only with the devotees but also with religious scholars who see this as a quiet yet powerful expression of Sanatan Dharma’s assimilative nature — one that does not enforce but inspires; that does not exclude, but embraces.
The Nagadevata, in front of whom she meditates, is traditionally believed to ward off evil and purify the soul. In the math’s courtyard, where ancient rituals, discourses, and Harikathas have echoed for generations, her meditative silence has added a new layer of spiritual gravitas.
Locals say this is the first time a Muslim woman has engaged in regular spiritual practice within the inner sanctums of Gavi Mutt, and she has drawn neither protest nor suspicion — only silent admiration. Many devotees believe her presence proves once again that Sanatan dharma is not a religion of barriers, but of bridges.
Swamiji of the Gavi Mutt, responding to queries, said, “Our Dharma teaches compassion, not discrimination. Anyone who seeks peace is welcome here. Hasina Begum is a sincere devotee, and we respect her journey.”
