Dussehra brings Hindu-Muslim artisans together

BHOPAL: A true ambassador of communal harmony and brotherhood, Mohd Ismail has been making effigies of Ravana, Kumbhakaran and Meghnath for the last 35 years.
Talking to TOI, he said unity among people is the key for India's growth. "Hindus and Muslims have lived like brothers since ages and will continue to do so. The politicians cannot fool us for long. Brotherhood is the only thing that can take India forward."
With a team of 15 persons, the craftsmen from Jaipur is busy these days designing the tallest effigy of MP for Dussehra.
"I have been making effigies for Dussehra for the last 35 years and it was only 10 years ago that I started coming to Bhopal to make effigies. I love to see my Hindu brothers appreciate my work," he said.
Citing examples of Muslim craftsmen making effigies and idols for Dussehra and Durga Puja in different cities of India, he said, "There are so many people from the Muslim community in Mathura, Kota and Ajmer who earn their bread by making effigies for Dussehra and idols for Durga Puja and Ganesh Charurthi".
Ismail said that his sons also make effigies, thus carrying forward the family business in Jaipur and Bhopal. "I know most of craftsmen who design the effigies of Ravana are Muslims."
"Even my sons help me in the business. While my younger son comes to Bhopal with me, the elder one handles the business back home. I have always taught them to respect other religions and live peacefully instead of quarrelling in the name of religion. No religion supports violence and bloodshed and we must understand this. We are humans first, then Hindus or Muslims. We should not forget this," Ismail said.