When the arts transcend caste

A devout Muslim, his livelihood is carving out Hindu gods on silver in temples. Sheikh Makbul (39), craftsman and artisan, works from his workshop-cum-residence in Sode Mutt Lane, adjacent to Udupi Krishna Mutt. He supplies ornate frames for idols, exquisite palanquins, embossed windows, intricately carved doors, all in silver to the temples.
A modest Makbul says says he no great aritsan.Whatever he has learnt today is from his father, P S Ameer Hamza, better known as Belli Saab. His father was his guru, friend, philosopher and guide. "I just follow his preachings and philosophy, in my work as well as in my," he says humbly.
The eldest son of seven children, Makbul lost his father last July. A famous craftsman, Hamza was also a widely respected astrologer and palmist. Following his death, it fell on Makbu to continue with his father's tradition. Initially, he was unsure if he could live up to his father's legacy, considering the respect he got from his customers and the mutts. But the response has been overwhelming and he enjoys the same support and trust that was extended to his father. His younger brother Sheikh Altaf (29), an expert in metal finishing, is also helping him.
Makbul says his clients' trust is the most important factor. Here he is is governed by the dictum of his late father __ don't compromise on quality and don't do mess with the metal. It's like God. If you think that your wages (making charges) is low, bargain with the customers and try to get more. Makbul says he follows this dictum in toto. "Our work is not just mass production. We do pieces, according to designs given by customers. Hence minute attention is required for the work we carry out."
Makbul who entered this field at the age of 10 is an accomplished artisan today. He gives his best to the job at hand, like any Hindu craftsman would and when the finished items are handed over, he offers pooja to the Bootharaja, a practice followed by his late father.
Makbul has undergone advanced training in bell metal craft at Regional Design and Technical Development Centre (Technical Wing) Bangalore. He believes hereditary has a role to play in craftsmanship.
A devout and practicing Muslim, he loves all Hindu gods. He believes the arts transcends caste, creed and religion. Makbul says, his house is the only Muslim house in the vicinity of the Krishna temple and his family has been residing here for 60 years. He believes religious harmony will come when we respect other religion, like we respect our own.