In a heartwarming display of communal harmony, more than 45 Hindu and Muslim artisans from Meerut are working side by side at Geeta Bhawan in Jammu to create the towering effigies of Ravana, Meghnad and Kumbhakaran for Dussehra celebrations across Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.
Bamboo frames, colourful paper, paint and cloth fill the workspace, where artisans of both communities work together with skill, patience and a shared sense of purpose. For them, the craft is more than a livelihood. It is a tradition that has passed through generations and one that has brought people of different faiths closer.
Craft that crosses boundaries
Meerut is well known for its effigy-making tradition, and its artisans travel to different cities every year ahead of Dussehra. This year, the team has set up base at Geeta Bhawan, turning the premises into a busy workshop for weeks.
Each effigy requires several stages of work. Artisans first build the skeletons from bamboo, then cover them with paper and cloth. Faces are painted with expressive detail, and costumes, crowns, moustaches and weapons are added. Careful finishing ensures that the effigies stand tall and look striking when they are displayed before the crowds.
Division of labour is natural in the workshop. Some artisans specialise in frame-making, others in painting or decoration, and everyone supports the other when deadlines approach. Faith does not divide the work; skill and teamwork drive it.
A message of unity
What stands out most is the spirit of togetherness. Hindu and Muslim artisans share tools, meals and conversation, and they treat the work as a shared responsibility. Many say the tradition has always been a collective effort in which religion plays no part in who builds, who paints or who is respected.
Their example carries a powerful message at a time when society needs reminders of what binds communities together. Where there is mutual trust and respect, people of different faiths can create something that all can enjoy.
Observers say such scenes reflect the cultural fabric of India, where festivals are often shaped by the contributions of many communities. Dussehra, a festival that marks the victory of good over evil, is made vivid in part by the hands of artisans from both faiths.
Preparing for Dussehra across J&K and Ladakh
The effigies prepared at Geeta Bhawan will be sent to various places in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, where Dussehra will be celebrated with processions, cultural programmes and the traditional burning of the effigies. Organisers and local committees await the finished figures, which draw large crowds every year.
The towering Ravana, accompanied by Meghnad and Kumbhakaran, remains the centrepiece of the festivities. Their size, colour and detail often become a talking point among families, children and visitors.
Livelihood and tradition
For the artisans, the festive season is an important source of income. Many travel hundreds of kilometres from home, spend weeks away from their families and work long hours to complete orders on time. Their hard work keeps a traditional craft alive and supports their families throughout the year.
Local residents visiting Geeta Bhawan have appreciated the artisans’ skill and dedication, many stopping to watch the effigies take shape.
Unity in every effigy
As the festival approaches, the workshop at Geeta Bhawan stands as a reminder that harmony is not just spoken about but practised. Every bamboo frame tied and every face painted carries the quiet strength of cooperation.
When the effigies finally rise before cheering crowds, they will carry more than a story of good over evil. They will also carry the story of artisans of different faiths who built them together, in a true spirit of unity, harmony and brotherhood.
