Boman Desai’s “Between the Mosque and the Temple” is a poignant tale set against the backdrop of religious tension in India. The story revolves around Banu, the chairperson of the Sanitation Committee, tasked with resolving a dispute between Hindus and Muslims over the placement of a dustbin near their respective places of worship.

The narrative begins with Banu’s morning routine, where she prepares herself modestly and reflects on the weight of the impending issue. She decides to walk to the disputed site with two committee members instead of using a car, aiming to demonstrate solidarity and approachability. Along the way, Banu encounters a group of students who join her procession, symbolizing unity across religious lines, reminiscent of Gandhi’s efforts during the independence movement.

Upon reaching the contentious spot, Banu devises a practical solution: she walks from the mosque to the temple while Hindu and Muslim leaders count her steps. This method determines the midpoint—232 steps—which Banu identifies as the ideal location for the dustbin. Her decision, placing it at the 116th step, balances the concerns of both communities.

Throughout the story, Banu’s role as a mediator is pivotal. Her Parsi identity—a minority community in India—and her gender contribute to her impartial stance, enabling her to bridge the gap between Hindus and Muslims. The support of the crowd behind her further strengthens her position, emphasizing unity and mutual respect.

The resolution of the conflict underscores Desai’s thematic focus on religious tolerance and understanding. Banu’s leadership exemplifies how dialogue, empathy, and a pragmatic approach can defuse potentially explosive situations. By avoiding favoritism towards either religious group and emphasizing fairness, Banu ensures that both Hindus and Muslims accept the compromise, thereby preserving peace in the community.

In conclusion, “Between the Mosque and the Temple” is not merely a story about a dustbin; it is a powerful allegory for the broader challenges of coexistence in a diverse society. Desai’s narrative skillfully portrays the complexities of religious identity and conflict resolution, offering a hopeful vision of harmony through dialogue and mutual respect.

Analysis

Conflict and Resolution: The story revolves around a seemingly trivial dispute over the placement of a dustbin, which becomes symbolic of deeper religious tensions between Hindus and Muslims. Desai uses this conflict to explore the complexities of identity and communal relations in India. The dustbin, a mundane object, becomes a focal point for competing claims and sensitivities tied to religious spaces.

Characterization of Banu: Banu, the protagonist and chairperson of the Sanitation Committee, is portrayed as a figure of authority and empathy. Her Parsi identity—a minority in India—and her gender are significant aspects of her character that enable her to navigate the religious divide impartially. Banu’s decision to walk to the disputed site instead of using a car emphasizes her connection to the people she serves and her commitment to finding a fair resolution.

Symbolism and Allegory: The story draws on historical references, such as Gandhi’s salt march, to underscore themes of unity and nonviolent resistance. The students who join Banu’s procession symbolize a collective desire for peace and understanding across religious lines. The placement of the dustbin at the midpoint between the mosque and the temple symbolizes compromise and mutual respect, suggesting that practical solutions can mitigate deep-seated divisions.

Narrative Technique: Desai employs a straightforward narrative style that effectively conveys the tensions and emotions involved in the conflict. The story unfolds through Banu’s perspective, allowing readers to empathize with her strategic thinking and emotional investment in resolving the dispute. The use of dialogue between Banu and the Hindu and Muslim leaders adds depth to their characters and highlights their differing perspectives on the issue.

Themes of Tolerance and Understanding: At its core, “Between the Mosque and the Temple” advocates for tolerance, empathy, and dialogue as essential tools for resolving conflicts in diverse societies. Banu’s success in mediating the dispute underscores the importance of impartiality and rationality in addressing sensitive communal issues. The story serves as a reminder that while religious differences may divide communities, common ground can be found through respectful communication and mutual accommodation.

Conclusion: In conclusion, Boman Desai’s “Between the Mosque and the Temple” is a thought-provoking exploration of religious identity, conflict resolution, and communal harmony. Through Banu’s character and the symbolic placement of the dustbin, Desai encourages readers to reflect on the complexities of coexistence and the potential for reconciliation in multicultural societies. The story offers a hopeful message that even seemingly insurmountable differences can be bridged through understanding and compromise.