Patiala: Safabadi Gate dotted with Ravan effigies

Mohit Khanna

Patiala, October 23

On the eve of Dasehra, Safabadi Gate, which is located in the middle of the city, has become a hub of festive activities. The streets near Atma Ram Kumar Sabha Senior Secondary School have come alive with the display of effigies of demon king Ravan.

What once started as a humble tradition nearly 25 years ago has now blossomed into a thriving business, with these effigies being sold not only in the city but across the state and neighbouring regions as well.

A trader in the area, Anil Kumar, says that Ravan effigies range from Rs 100 to Rs 50000. He attributes the growth of the trade to the increasing trend of urban housing societies. According to him, people who belong to higher-income groups have started avoiding the traditional mela sites due to security concerns along with the problems of dust and pollution.

Another trader, Manoj Kumar, reveals that nearly 50 families in the vicinity are engaged in the business of crafting Ravan effigies. He recounts the story of his elder brother, Santosh Kumar, who sculpted the first effigy nearly 28 years ago. He says that his brother found no buyers for three years. However, in 1997, the effigy was sold for Rs. 1500. This marked a turning point in their endeavour.

Manoj Kumar says, “What began as a means of generating extra income has since evolved into a major business. In addition to attracting customers from Punjab, we now serve clients from Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Delhi, among others. Pilgrims visiting the Kali Devi temple to offer their obeisance also make it a point to visit us and purchase the miniature Ravan effigies.”

Interestingly, the pandemic played a significant role in boosting the Ravan effigy business. Many people are now opting to avoid crowded mega-mela sites, especially when accompanied by children. Instead, they turn to local artisans like those at Safabadi Gate to fulfil their Dasehra celebrations.

Lovleen, a resident of the city, visited one such shop with her son to purchase a miniature Ravan effigy. Her son decided to celebrate Dasehra with his friends in the neighbourhood.

Another resident of the city, Sunny, suggests that the government should consider supporting these artisans and encourage them to create eco-friendly alternatives. He emphasised the importance of striking a balance between environmental concerns and sustaining the livelihoods of these skilled craftsmen.