Spectacle of good over evil: 65-ft Ravana effigy to emit fire from mouth at Karnal Dasehra

Preparations are in full swing at Sector 4 Dasehra Ground in city, where towering effigies of Ravana, Meghnath and Kumbhkaran are being erected for Thursday’s grand Dasehra celebrations, a festival that celebrates the victory of good over evil.

The craftsmanship behind the preparations of these effigies makes it unique Muslim artists led by Arshad and Amjad along with their 24-members from Gangoh in UP have worked tirelessly for more than 40 days to prepare the effigies. They are the third generation who are coming to Karnal to prepare the effigies. They have crafted effigies of Ravana (65 feet), Meghnath and Kumbhkaran (both 55-feet).

The effigy of Ravana, painted in blue colour, is the main attraction, with special effects that will emit fire from its mouth, adding an excitement to the spectacle. Besides, a 55-feet pink Meghnath and a 55-feet saffron-and-yellow Kumbhkaran have been crafted with equal magnificence. “Every year we try to add something new. This time, we have designed special fire effects and rotating fireworks inside the effigies to make the show more spectacular,” said Arshad, while giving the final touches.

The artisans are not only working for Karnal but also for Nilokheri, Taraori, Ghir and nearby villages, where their effigies will take centre stage. “This work is our legacy. My father and grandfather made these effigies and now we are carrying the tradition forward. Dasehra is incomplete without our craft,” said Amjad.

The Dasehra ground is also getting ready with a grand replica of Lanka, which will be set ablaze during the ‘Lanka Dahan’ ritual.

People have already begun visiting near the ground, excitedly watching the giant effigies being raised.

Anuj, Mela Committee incharge, said they have made all arrangements for the grand function of Dasehra festival. The effigies will be burnt at around 5.30pm. Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, Haryana Assembly Speaker Harvinder Kalyan, Mayor Renu Bala Gupta and Karnal MLA Jagmohan Anand have been invited for the programme.