5 Generations, 105 Feet: Mathura's Muslim Artisans Craft Jaipur's Giant Ravana
Discover how five generations of Muslim artisans from Mathura are crafting a massive 105-foot Ravana effigy for Jaipur's Dussehra celebrations.
As Jaipur gears up for the grandeur of Dussehra, a remarkable display of communal harmony and ancestral skill is unfolding in Adarsh Nagar. A team of approximately 20 Muslim artisans from Mathura has arrived in the Pink City to construct a towering 105-foot effigy of Ravana, continuing a legacy that spans five generations.
A Legacy Written in Bamboo and Paper
For these artisans, building the effigy is not just a job, but a family heritage. The tradition began decades ago with the grandfather of current artisan Chand Babu, who originally crafted a modest 20-foot structure for the city. Over the years, the scale of the project has grown exponentially, mirroring the growing enthusiasm of the celebrations.
“This is our fifth generation carrying on the tradition,” shared Chand Babu. “My grandfather first made a 20-foot effigy here; today, we make a 105-foot Ravana.”
The Art of Construction
Creating a structure of this magnitude requires precision, patience, and a specific blend of traditional materials. The team arrives in Jaipur nearly two months before the festival to ensure every detail is perfect. To bring the demon king to life, the artisans employ a variety of materials, including:
- Bamboo: Used to create the sturdy internal skeleton.
- Hemp and Twine: To bind the structure securely.
- Flour Paste: Serving as a traditional adhesive.
- Thick and Coloured Paper: To give the effigy its vivid appearance and final form.
A Symbol of Cultural Unity
The annual journey from Mathura to Jaipur has become a cherished ritual for the artisans. Their commitment to the craft highlights a beautiful intersection of faith and culture, where the creation of a symbol for a Hindu festival is entrusted to a family of Muslim craftsmen year after year.
The massive 105-foot structure will serve as the centerpiece of the Dussehra celebrations in Adarsh Nagar, where crowds will gather to witness the traditional burning of the effigy, marking the victory of good over evil.