For This Muslim Family In Mathura, Ravana Effigy Making Is Its 'Religion', Zafar Ali Keeps Tradition Alive

A Muslim man from Mathura is busy preparing the effigies to be used on the occasion of Vijayadashmi as a mark of Dharma’s victory over Adharma. According to Indian mythology, Lord Ram emerged victorious against Ravana, the demon king of Lanka on Vijayadashmi. Jafar Ali’s family has been doing this work for the past three generations, reports ANI.

Ali is preparing a 100-foot high effigy of Ravana to be burnt near Delhi’s Ramlila ground. 

"Our family has been for generations making the Ravana effigy. We do it to show Hindu-Muslim unity. Yes, we are Muslim but we do it," ANI quotes Ali as saying.

Aamir, who works with Ali, says that effigy making is his religion and he finds no difference between Hindus and Muslims. He further alleges political leaders of dividing the people on the basis of religion. 

“This work is our religion. My father also used to make Ravana effigy. For the past 40 years, I have been doing this work. Political leaders divide people in the name of religion. For us, Hindus and Muslims are same”, says Aamir.

This year, Vijayadashmi falls on October 8. On this day, effigies of Ravana, Kumbhkaran and Meghnad are burnt to commemorate the destruction of evil.

(With ANI inputs)