As the countdown to Durga Puja commences, artisans throughout Bengaluru are putting the final touches on the ornate decorations and idols that will embellish the city's pandals. With just a few weeks left until the festival, a lively atmosphere fills the workshops of these skilled craftsmen in Jayamahal, Cox Town, Maruti Seva Nagar, and other areas of the city.

A fusion of traditional methods and contemporary designs is currently trending, with age-old techniques passed down through generations being combined with modern aesthetics to craft exquisite pieces of art. The intricate details, vivid hues, and symbolic representations all contribute to the artistry that breathes life into Durga Puja.

Expressing his perspective, artisan Chandrashekhar Pal shared, "Theme-based idols and modern designs are gaining popularity in the city, with some pieces incorporating fabric into the clay creations. The idols vary in size from 6 to 15 feet tall, with a rising demand for larger sculptures."

While it can be disheartening when our efforts go unnoticed, the knowledge that our artistry is utilized for religious purposes brings us immense satisfaction. We are grateful for the opportunity to generate income for ourselves and our teams - Chandrashekar Pal, an artisan in Bengaluru.

"The celebrations are becoming grander, and the demand for idols has surged," remarked one artisan who has been crafting idols for Durga Puja for over 35 years in Bengaluru. He mentioned that with more Bengalis migrating to the city, the demand has amplified. Noting that Karnataka also celebrates Dussehra with similar rituals, the artisan underlined that the foremost contrast is that Bengalis observe Durga Puja, commencing on Panchami day.