Newly-wed Trinamool MP Nusrat Jahan on Thursday sought to send a strong message of secularism, faith and humanity when she attended the International Society for Krishna Consciousness' (ISKCON) Rath Yatra event here.
Sporting a traditional look in a saree, 'mangalsutra' and bangles, the Bengali actress took part in all the rituals along with her husband Nikhil Jain and other dignitaries who participated in the chariot festival.
Like every year, the event was inaugurated by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.
"I think I am blessed that God has given me this opportunity to stand on behalf of all young Indians who think the way I am thinking today. We stand for inclusive India, secularity and humanity," Nusrat Jahan told reporters here.
.@nusratchirps and Nikhil Jain at ISKON RathYatra procession this afternoon. #NusratJahan pic.twitter.com/J6KQkhMHLB
— Calcutta Times (@Calcutta_Times) July 4, 2019
She said she feels honoured to be invited by the ISKCON and is proud of the various religions and diverse culture of the state where everyone comes together to celebrate the festivities.
"Didi (as Mamata Banerjee is popularly called) is always present at the Red Road for Namaz during Eid. I think we all should come together and move towards a better tomorrow," the young MP said.
Regarding the criticism surrounding her attire and wearing sindoor despite being a Muslim, she said that she doesn't care about baseless things.
"I have been a Muslim by birth and I am still a Muslim. It is all about faith. You have to feel it inside your heart and not in your head," she said.
TMC MP Nusrat Jahan, in Kolkata, on reports that a fatwa was issued against her: I don't pay heed to things which are baseless. I know my religion. I have been a Muslim by birth and I am still a Muslim. It's about faith. You have to feel it inside your heart & not in your head. pic.twitter.com/pbNjxXh6EV
— ANI (@ANI) July 4, 2019
Jain appreciated his wife for standing up against trolls.
"It feels great that she has risen above all religion and become an MP. She has also given a fitting reply to all those who are trolling her wearing sindoor and everything. I am really proud of her views," he said.