Muslim Family Sets an Example of Communal Harmony at Dussehra Festival in Nahan
Nahan (Himachal Pradesh): In a heartwarming display of communal harmony, a Muslim family from Uttar Pradesh continues to play a pivotal role in the grand Dussehra celebrations held annually at the historic Chaugan Ground in the princely town of Nahan.
For several years now, the family of Mohammad Saddam and Saleem Ahmad from Thana town in Shamli district, Uttar Pradesh, has been constructing the effigies of Ravana, Kumbhkaran, and Meghnad — central to the Dussehra festivities. This year too, a team of 9–10 members from the family arrived in Nahan nearly a week ago and have been working tirelessly day and night.
Their craftsmanship goes beyond just building the effigies. The family is also responsible for filling them with fireworks to ensure a grand visual spectacle during the burning ceremony — symbolizing the victory of good over evil.
This year’s celebration will feature a 40-foot-tall effigy of Ravana and 35-foot-tall figures of Kumbhkaran and Meghnad, which will be set ablaze amidst vibrant fireworks and lighting at the historic Chaugan Ground, established in 1621.
According to Shyama Pundir, Chairperson of the Nahan Municipal Council, ₹1.45 lakh is being spent solely on effigy construction, with a separate budget allocated for fireworks and other arrangements.
This contribution by a Muslim family to a major Hindu festival underscores the essence of India’s cultural fabric — where festivals become a collective celebration of unity and mutual respect. Indeed, festivals like Dussehra and Diwali shine brighter with the enthusiastic participation of all communities, proving that the spirit of togetherness goes beyond religion.
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