Artisans from different faiths decorate idols ahead of Durga Puja

Durga Puja, an annual Hindu festival, is celebrated across India, and especially in eastern states, with great enthusiasm and devotion. The festival represents the victory of Good over Evil. In Varanasi it also symbolizes harmony and brotherhood. Ahead of the festival, Muslims artisans make ornaments and other decorative items that adorn the idols of Goddess Durga. The artisans work round the clock ahead of the festival and embroider golden threads or Zari on crowns and other ornaments. They also use bright, colourful beads and fancy stones and lace for decoration. Once the artisans are through with their work they send the decorated items to wholesale dealers and various shops, which are mainly owned by Hindus.