Kashmir's Muslim artists prepare 'Dussehra' effigies

Jammu, Sept 21 (ANI): Setting a perfect example of communal harmony, Muslim artists here prepared effigies of demon king Ravana, his brother Kumbhakaran and son Meghnath for 'Dussehra' celebrations.

These artists have been preparing effigies and it is main source of their livelihood.

"I come here every year one month before 'Dussehra' to prepare the effigies of Ravana, Kumbhakaran and Meghnath. It is a month-long hard work. We are a group of 35 to 40 workers, who prepare these effigies. Out of us, 11 to 12 are Muslims and rest are Hindus. We work with our Hindu brothers and complete the task with unity," said Mohammad Gyanudin, a Muslim artist.

Officials of Sanatan Dharam Sabha, a Hindu religious organisation, said that people of all faiths participate in the Dussehra festival.

"People of all religions participate in the 'Dussehra' festival. All are our brothers and we celebrate together," said Satpal Singh, general secretary, Sanatan Dharam Sabha. Dussehra is celebrated to mark the defeat of Ravana by warrior king Lord Ram.

The Ramlila -- an enactment of the life of Lord Rama, is held during the nine days preceding Dussehra during which ballets from Ramayana are enacted.

'Dussehra' marks the triumph of good over evil.

According to Hindu mythology, on this day, Lord Ram beheaded Ravana, the ten-headed demon king.

Legend has it that Lord Ram's consort Sita was abducted by Ravana. Lord Ram went in war with Ravana to release his wife from captivity. Lord Ram's victory over Ravana is described as the triumph of good over evil and is celebrated every year as 'Dussehra'. (ANI)