Ludhiana is set to witness the unveiling of its tallest Ravana effigy to date, standing at an imposing 121 feet, meticulously crafted by skilled Muslim artisans hailing from Agra, Uttar Pradesh. This marks a continuation of a multi-generational tradition deeply rooted in the art of effigy making, bringing a significant cultural element to the city’s Dasehra celebrations.
The Chenab Times has learned that the team of artisans, led by Akil Khan, has been a fixture in Ludhiana for years, creating effigies for various committees across the city and surrounding areas. Alongside the colossal Ravana figure, effigies of Ravana’s son, Meghnad, and brother, Kumbhakarna, will also be displayed, each standing at approximately 45 feet.
Akil Khan, an artisan from Agra, spearheads a dedicated team of 25 workers, all converging in Ludhiana to meet the festival’s demands. He explained that the family’s involvement in this craft spans three generations, a legacy passed down from his ancestors. Khan noted that while he is overseeing the Ludhiana project, other family members are concurrently engaged in similar work in Surat, Gujarat, as well as in Haryana and Pune, Maharashtra, underscoring the widespread reach of their specialized artistry.
The process of creating these elaborate effigies commences at least six weeks prior to the Dasehra festival, requiring meticulous attention to detail. The artisans rely on a combination of raw materials brought from their home base in Uttar Pradesh and supplies sourced locally in Ludhiana to ensure the structural integrity and visual appeal of the creations. This intricate work demands significant planning and execution, reflecting years of accumulated expertise.
Interestingly, Akil Khan revealed that he holds a BTech degree, and his sons, including Sohail, who has a BSc and is preparing for competitive examinations, actively participate in the annual effigy-making endeavor. This juxtaposition of traditional craftsmanship with modern education highlights the evolving dynamics within artisan families. He also mentioned that his father, Asgar Ali, despite his advanced age, remains involved, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to the family tradition. Khan acknowledged that while the work is intrinsic to their identity, escalating costs associated with raw materials and labor are progressively impacting their financial margins.
Dinesh Marwaha, representing the Sri Ram Leela and Dasehra Committee in Daresi, lauded the artisans from Agra for their exceptional skill and their consistent ability to introduce innovative elements into their work year after year. He emphasized that the artisans bring a unique perspective that enhances the visual spectacle of the festival.
The rising expenses have become a significant concern, with Marwaha stating that the total cost for constructing the effigies this year has surpassed ₹5 lakh. This surge is primarily attributed to the increased prices of essential raw materials and a general rise in labor costs, factors that have collectively contributed to a higher overall expenditure for the organizing committees.
The tradition of effigy making for Dasehra is a long-standing practice in many parts of India, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. The creation of exceptionally large effigies like the one in Ludhiana requires not only artistic talent but also considerable engineering acumen to ensure stability and safety. The collaborative effort between artisans from different regions and local committees underscores the inclusive nature of cultural celebrations across India, where diverse communities contribute to shared festivities.
The scale of the Ravana effigy in Ludhiana places it among the largest ever constructed in the city, promising to be a focal point for the Dasehra celebrations. The dedication of the artisans, who travel and work away from their homes for extended periods, highlights their commitment to preserving and propagating their ancestral craft. As the festival approaches, the towering effigy stands as a testament to this enduring tradition and the artistic prowess of the craftsmen involved.
The Chenab Times News Desk