Humanity Above Religion: Muslim Artists from Meerut Craft Dussehra Effigies in Shimla
A Muslim family from Meerut continues a 70-year tradition of making Ravana effigies for Shimla's Jakhu temple, promoting communal harmony.
In a heartwarming display of communal harmony and shared heritage, a Muslim family from Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, is continuing a decades-old tradition in the hills of Himachal Pradesh. These skilled artists travel to Shimla every year to craft the towering effigies of Ravana, Kumbhkaran, and Meghnad for the Dussehra celebrations at the historic Jakhu temple, proving that art and humanity transcend religious boundaries.
A Legacy Spanning Three Generations
The tradition is not a recent development but a legacy that has spanned nearly 70 years. Now represented by the third generation of artists, the family has been specifically visiting Shimla for the past two decades. Mohammad Sohil, a young artist from the family, shared that he is simply following in the footsteps of his elders to keep this unique bond alive.
The family's commitment to the craft has remained steadfast, surviving even the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. For them, the journey from Meerut to Shimla is more than just a professional assignment; it is a testament to the brotherhood that exists between different faith communities.
Living and Working in the Heart of the Temple
One of the most poignant aspects of this tradition is the hospitality extended by the temple authorities. The artists do not merely visit the site; they live and eat within the temple premises during their stay.
"We live in the temple and eat here. We have never faced any problems. Everyone treats us with love and respect," Sohil told ANI.
The temple committee ensures that all their needs, including food and accommodation, are taken care of, creating an environment of mutual respect and affection.
Beyond Jakhu Temple: Spreading the Craft Across Shimla
The family's expertise is in high demand across the region. While the primary focus is the Jakhu temple, where Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu is expected to burn the Ravana effigy on October 20, the team's work extends to several other locations. Their craftsmanship can be seen in:
- Sankat Mochan temple
- Shoghi
- Sunni
- Junga
With a team of 20 to 22 people, the artists work in shifts. While the main structures are often completed quickly, the final days are dedicated to the intricate cloth work and finishing touches that give the effigies their imposing look.
A Message of Brotherhood
Amidst a world often divided by religious lines, Mohammad Sohil and his family use their work to send a powerful message of unity. Sohil emphasized that attempts to create divisions between Hindus and Muslims are misguided and that the true essence of society lies in mutual respect.
He believes that participating in each other's festivals is the key to a peaceful coexistence. "When Hindu people come to our festivals, we also participate in theirs," he remarked, urging people not to let religious differences create societal rifts.
As Shimla prepares for the grand celebrations on October 20, and as Governor Kavinder Gupta prepares to inaugurate the International Dussehra in Kullu, the work of these artists from Meerut stands as a silent but powerful reminder that humanity always comes first.