Dussehra 2023: Masoom Ali is carrying forward his family legacy
A Muslim family in Uttar Pradesh has been making Dussehra effigies for the last three generations showcasing the beauty of cultural diversity.
Masoom Ali from Uttar Pradesh's Hapur district has made a 70-feet effigy of Ravana, Meghnad and Kumbhakaran for Dussehra.
"Our family has been doing this for 100 years. My grandfather did it, my father did it. Our future generations will do it too," he told NDTV.
Carrying forward the family legacy, Masoom Ali said Dussehra is not just a celebration for them, but also a source of livelihood.
Their effigies are an integral part of the annual Ramlila event in Hapur's Pilkhuwa, where the effigies of Ravana, Meghnad, and Kumbhakaran are burned on Dussehra evening, marking the triumph of good over evil.
Masoom's brother-in-law, who also works with him, said they wait for Dussehra every year, the way they wait for Eid.
Masoom said inflation has affected their business over the years because of a steady surge in raw material prices. "In every few years, the size of the Ravana decreases by 10-feet," he said.
Vijayadashami marks the 10th day of the Shardiya Navratri when people across the country burn effigies of Ravana along with his son Meghnath and brother Kumbhakaran.