The unique and multi-coloured effigies burnt in Himachal Pradesh every year to mark the symbolic victory of good over evil are the creations of Muslim craftsmen. This year too is no different as Muslim artisans from across the country are busy preparing the effigies of Ravana, Meghnath and Kumbhkaran for the Dussehra festival.
It is a unique example of unity in diversity where Akhtar, Rashid, Irshad and several other Muslim artisans like them are coming to Shimla since long to prepare effigies of Ravana, Meghnath and Kumbhkaran. They are working round the clock so that they can make the effigies well in time.
This Dussehra festival is also a means of earning for them as they get handsome amount for this work. They feel proud while doing this religious work and also give a message of peace, love and brotherhood to the society.