Crafted by Muslim artistes, 75-ft Ravana to turn heads in Karnal

“On Dasehra, Ravana will turn and look at the people who have come to see him. That will be the centre of attraction,” said Amjad, the lead craftsman.

The family members start work nearly a month and a half in advance. This season, they started right after Janmashtami. They build effigies not only for Karnal’s Sector 4 celebrations but also for 17–18 other locations, a work that keeps them busy for 45 to 60 days every year.

For two decades, the family has returned to Karnal season after season. Other relatives join them when extra hands are needed. On October 20, when the effigies of Ravana, Meghnad and Kumbhakarna are set on fire amid spectacular fireworks, thousands from Karnal and neighbouring districts are expected to throng the grounds.

Meanwhile, the Dasehra mela committee claimed that they have made all arrangements for the grand celebrations.