Muslim Artisans in Mumbai Craft Ravana Effigies for Dussehra Celebrations
In Mumbai, Muslim artisans have been crafting Ravana effigies for over five decades, showcasing unity and cultural harmony during Dussehra.
Mumbai, October 16 (Daily Kiran) : Preparations for the Dussehra festival are well underway in Mumbai, with artisans busy constructing effigies of Ravana across locations like Sion Koliwada, Girgaon Chowpatty, and Azad Maidan. Notably, Hafizuddin Ahmed, a Muslim craftsman, has been creating these effigies for over fifty years. He travels from Noida and Delhi to Mumbai each year, bringing his team along to continue this time-honored tradition.
Dussehra is a significant Hindu festival symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. Celebrations culminate in the burning of large Ravana effigies, crafted from bamboo, paper, and various materials. The process requires exceptional skill, patience, and hard work, with Hafizuddin and his team drawing on their extensive experience to produce these impressive figures each year.
For Hafizuddin Ahmed, this work transcends mere employment; it represents a vital part of his artistry and craftsmanship. His dedication illustrates that art knows no religion and that talent serves to unite people.
India’s cultural heritage is marked by the contributions of diverse communities to one another’s festivals and traditions, a testament to social harmony. Hafizuddin’s efforts embody this spirit, reflecting the coexistence of various religions and communities in a multicultural city like Mumbai. As the effigies take shape, the preparations for Dussehra continue to gain momentum, showcasing an inspiring example of religious harmony and the country’s rich cultural tapestry.
In a conversation with a news agency, Hafizuddin shared that he hails from Aligarh in Uttar Pradesh and currently resides in Gautam Buddha Nagar. He mentioned that multiple generations of his family have been involved in this craft, stating, “We create Ravana effigies in different locations.”
Hafizuddin expressed his passion for crafting these figures, noting, “I enjoy making effigies, and it also provides a source of income. Additionally, the purpose of creating Ravana’s effigy is to symbolize the victory of good over evil.” Another artisan added, “I’ve been watching this work since childhood. I made effigies in Delhi for some time, and for the past 20-25 years, I’ve been crafting them in Mumbai.”
