Meerut Muslim family makes Dussehra effigies in Shimla for 20 years

A Muslim family from Meerut in Uttar Pradesh is crafting effigies of Ravana, Kumbhkaran and Meghnad for Dussehra celebrations at Shimla's historic Jakhu temple, with the festival on 20 October. Artist Mohammad Sohil said his family had been associated with the tradition for about 20 years, following elders whose involvement spans nearly 70 years.

Sohil said the team of 20 to 22 people had already spent three days at Jakhu and would complete the effigies in two days. He added that they had never faced problems and were treated with love and respect. Another artist, Abdul Azim, said they were using fewer firecrackers this year to reduce pollution and had changed the clothing on the effigies.

The artists, who have regular jobs as barbers, painters, tailors and mechanics, said the work was extra income. Sohil said some people try to divide on the basis of religion, which weakens the secular fabric, and urged maintaining brotherhood. India TV News reported Sohil's father had held the contract for 20 years and the family took a one-year break during the COVID-19 pandemic.