Muslim artisans bridge the divide

Ishrat S Banwait
Tribune News Service
Mohali, October 11

For the past 20 years, two Muslim septuagenarians have been travelling from Meerut to Mohali to make effigies of Ravana, Meghnad and Kumbhakarna for the Dasehra celebrations. This year as well, Vakeel Ahmed (75) and Mohammad Ilias (70) are on the job, along with 13 other members of their team.

This year, they are preparing a 75 feet tall Ravana effigy for the Dasehra celebrations to be held at the Phase 8 ground here. Ilias said before they leave for Meerut every year, organisers book them for the next year. “We receive so much love here that we are unable to decline their request,” says Ilias.

Vakeel and Ilias remain associated with the team each year while other members keep changing. The duo say they feel it is an honour to have the opportunity of being a part of a Hindu festival.

“We are proud that we are spreading the message of peace, love, brotherhood and harmony,” says Vakeel Ahmed.

Back in Meerut, these artisans are involved in all types of decoration works be it flower decorations in temples, weddings or preparing sets for shoots of movies and music videos.

Ilias’s 20-year-son Shoib, who also accompanies them, said they spend around a month each year here for the preparation of effigies and leave for Meerut a day after Dasehra.

The duo claim that their work is the best in the tricity as they bring with them the best artisans from Meerut. Every item is handmade and is carefully crafted wherein the detailing is given proper attention, said Ilias.

‘It’s an honour to be part of Hindu festival’

Vakeel and Ilias remain associated with the team each year while other members keep changing. The duo say they feel it is an honour to have an opportunity of being part of a Hindu festival. “We are proud that we are spreading the message of peace, love, brotherhood and harmony,” says Vakeel Ahmed.

Effigy of ‘corruption’ also to be burnt

For the past few years, it has been a trend to burn a fourth effigy during the Dasehra celebrations. This year, the fourth effigy will signify corruption and will also be burnt along with those of Ravana, Meghnad and Kumbhakarna. While Ravana’s effigy will be 75 feet tall, Kumbhakarna’s will be 70 feet and Meghnad’s will be 65 feet.