Muslims in Varanasi design crowns for Hindu deities

Islam may treat idol worship as a sin against the prophet, but Muslim artisans in Varanasi see the making of crowns for Hindu deities as a labour of love.

Varanasi, Sept 4 : Islam may treat idol worship as a sin against the prophet, but Muslim artisans in Varanasi see the making of crowns for Hindu deities as a labour of love.

The crown making business starts ahead of Janmasthami, the birth anniversary of Lord Krishna.

Idols are normally made of clay, but Hindus and Muslims work together to adorn it.

"The stitching and designing of a crown is done by Muslims, whereas the finishing and the selling of crowns is done by Hindus. 50-50 work is shared by both Hindus and Muslims," said Krishna Prasad Mahendra, a crown exporter.

About 20,000 Muslim families depend on crown making for their livelihood.

"There is no difference between our religion and their (Hindus) religion. All the religions are one and there is greatness in oneness," said Sayeed Ansari, a crown maker.

The crowns are made in various sizes ranging from 22 to 50 inches, depending on the size of the idols, some of which are embedded with stones and semi- precious jewels.

These crowns are then sent to Vrindavan, Mathura, Mumbai, Kolkata, Delhi, Surat and Ahmedabad.

Varanasi's artisans tame the demon of communalism by promoting brotherhood and harmony.

ANI