A Muslim idol-maker who dropped out of school has become a symbol of communal harmony in Darrang and Udalguri districts of Assam. Hasem Ali, a resident of Dalgaon in Darrang district, who had to discontinue his education because of poverty, has emerged as one of the most sought-after idol artists in recent times.

A devout Muslim, Ali has been making idols and designing puja pandals for a couple of years now. The 45-year-old artist, who quit his school after failing the Class X board examination, has never received any formal training in idol-making or designing.

“But I was fascinated when I used to stand beside local Kalumoni Dey, a local artist, and watch him paint. Gradually, I tried my hand at the art and it came off well. Kalumoni-da was also impressed and appreciated my efforts,” says Ali.

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