Artisans of Muslim faith sculpt figures of Lord Krishna in Uttar Pradesh prior to the celebration of Janmashtami
Aligarh's Idol-Making Tradition: A Testament to Unity and Skilled Craftsmanship
Aligarh, a city known for its educational institutions and locks, has gained recognition for another unique craft - idol-making. This tradition, with a legacy of over 100 years, is now a significant part of the city's identity[1][2].
The idol business in Aligarh is thriving, particularly during the approach of Krishna Janmashtami, a major Hindu festival that marks the birth anniversary of Lord Krishna[1][2]. This year, the festival falls on August 16, 2025[3].
The most worshipped deity during Janmashtami is Laddu Gopal, and the demand for handmade brass idols of this form of Lord Krishna is growing yearly[1][2]. The crafting process is a collaborative effort, with Muslim and Sikh artisans actively involved in every stage, from casting and welding to finishing and detailing[1][2].
Aqeel Khan, a brass idol welder, is one of the artisans preparing Laddu Gopal idols for this year's festival. He expressed pride in their work and noted the peaceful coexistence of Hindus and Muslims in Aligarh[1][2]. Aqeel has been practicing this craft for 25 years, and his family continues the tradition[1][2].
The idols are handmade and decorated meticulously, showcasing the skilled craftsmanship of the artisans[1][2]. The city's artisans are also preparing idols of various Hindu deities for the approaching festival[1][2].
This collaboration between artisans of different faiths underscores how traditional craft and religious celebration intersect to foster peace and economic activity in Aligarh[1][2]. The idol business not only serves as a source of income but also symbolises unity and communal harmony[1][2].
| Aspect | Details | |------------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Location | Aligarh city, India | | Idol type | Brass idols of Laddu Gopal (form of Lord Krishna) | | Festivals | Krishna Janmashtami | | Artisan communities | Muslim and Sikh artisans actively involved | | Crafting stages | Casting, welding, finishing, detailing | | Legacy | Over 100 years | | Market | Domestic and international demand | | Cultural significance | Symbol of communal harmony and skilled craftsmanship across religious communities |
References: [1] https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/aligarh-idol-makers-of-brass-laddoo-gopal-idols-gear-up-for-janmashtami/article65501654.ece [2] https://www.indiatoday.in/magazine/young-india/story/20210831-aligarh-idol-makers-of-brass-laddoo-gopal-idols-gear-up-for-janmashtami-1821138-2021-08-31 [3] https://www.mysticindia.org/vishu-2025-date.php
In Aligarh, the city bustling with educational institutions and locks, the home-and-garden scene is enriched by the traditional art of brass idol-making, especially during the approach of Krishna Janmashtami. The idol-making tradition in Aligarh, with a heritage over 100 years old, is not just a source of income, but also a powerful symbol of unity and skilled craftsmanship, involving collaboration among Muslim and Sikh artisans.
