As the Durga Puja countdown commences, artisans in Bengaluru are meticulously adding final touches to the elaborate decorations and idols that will embellish the city’s pandals. With just a few weeks left until the festival, a vibrant energy fills the workshops of these skilled craftsmen in Jayamahal, Cox Town, Maruti Seva Nagar, and other areas of the city.

The latest trend involves a fusion of traditional methods and contemporary designs. Passed down through generations, traditional techniques are combined with modern aesthetics to produce exquisite works of art. The intricate details, vivid colors, and symbolic elements all contribute to bringing Durga Puja to life.

Chandrashekhar Pal, an artisan, shared, “Theme-based idols and modern designs are gaining popularity in the city. Some pieces incorporate clothing into the clay designs, with sizes ranging from 6 to 15 feet tall, and there is a rising demand for larger idols.” Despite sometimes feeling unappreciated, artisans find fulfillment in knowing that their art is used for religious purposes and provides livelihoods for themselves and their teams.

Expressing the growing demand, another experienced artisan mentioned, “The demand has surged, and I now craft around 60 idols compared to the previous four or five. The influx of more Bengalis to the city has further fueled this demand.” Having been creating idols for Durga Puja in Bengaluru for 35 years, he highlighted the distinctions between Durga Puja and local Dussehra celebrations, noting that Bengalis commence their festivities on Panchami.