Cuttack: As religious intolerance hogs the headlines in the country, Odisha has set an example of communal harmony with hundreds of Muslims helping Hindus to celebrate Durga Puja.
The millennium city Cuttack is a melting pot of religions, faiths, and cultures. The ‘Katakia’ way of living itself is synonymous with ‘Brotherhood’. A testimony to this centuries-old togetherness in Cuttack is the active participation of Muslim artisans in Hindu festivals.
Every Durga Puja, Cuttack city sees many such Muslim families working in full swing to complete the artistic tableaus that are the backdrop of the pandals. The ornamental pieces are made using golden paper, glitter, mirrors, golden wires, and Indian cork, locally known as Sola.
This work, popular for its artistic brilliance, is locally famous as Zari Medha. There is a sense of pride and ownership in this work. Most Muslim decorators have been doing this for generations. Besides the background of the tapestry, these artisans also decorate the idols by making headgears and ornaments that are either made of Silver or Gold.
The Muslim families of different areas of Cuttack are now busy day and night in the work of making Zari Medha. Not only Durga Puja, but they also decorate in many other Hindu festivals like Ganesh Puja, Kali Puja, Laxmi Puja, and even the famous Rath Yatra.
Starting from Akshaya Tritiya, the artisans are engaged in this work. The height of the Medhas range from 5 feet to 20 feet. It is sold by the artisans at a price of Rs 50,000 to 1.5 lakh. They are happy to offer their service during Hindu festivals and that their work is appreciated.
“Cuttack is a city of brotherhood. We also visit the pandals and are received with respect by our Hindu brethren, who reward us if the work is good. This year has brought more joy as the work had been stalled for the last two years due to the Covid-19 pandemic,” said an artisan Syed Aslam Ali.
“We have been working here for three generations. The work starts two months prior to the Durga Puja. The work is done once a year but it brings us happiness,” said another artisan Sk Raziq.
