As the countdown to Durga Puja commences, skilled artisans in Bengaluru are meticulously finalizing the intricate decorations and idols that will embellish the city’s pandals. In the bustling workshops of Jayamahal, Cox Town, Maruti Seva Nagar, and other neighborhoods, a blend of traditional methods and contemporary designs is being utilized to craft stunning creations that bring Durga Puja to life. Artisans are incorporating traditional techniques passed down through generations alongside modern aesthetics to produce theme-based idols ranging from 6 to 15 feet tall. The vibrant colors, intricate details, and symbolic representations in these artworks convey both the cultural significance and evolving trends of the festival. Despite the sometimes unnoticed efforts put into their craft, artisans like Chandrashekhar Pal find satisfaction in knowing that their art is used for religious purposes and provides livelihoods for themselves and their teams. The demand for idols has risen in Bengaluru, with some artisans having to create more than 60 pieces compared to the few they made in the past, attributed to an increasing number of Bengalis settling in the city. Amidst the cultural diversity of Bengaluru, the distinct celebrations of Durga Puja hold a unique significance, starting on the auspicious day of Panchami for the Bengali community.