As the countdown to Durga Puja gets underway, skilled artisans in Bengaluru are putting the finishing touches on the intricate decorations and idols that will adorn the city’s pandals. In the bustling workshops of Jayamahal, Cox Town, Maruti Seva Nagar, and other parts of the city, traditional techniques passed down through generations are combined with modern designs to create stunning artworks that bring Durga Puja to life. Artisan Chandrashekhar Pal noted the growing popularity of theme-based idols and modern designs, with some incorporating clothing into the clay designs. The sizes of the idols range from 6 to 15 feet high, with an increasing demand for larger pieces. Despite the sometimes unnoticed hard work, artisans find great satisfaction in knowing that their art is used for religious purposes. The demand for idols has grown significantly, with one artisan creating around 60 idols compared to only a few in the past due to more Bengalis moving to the city. Celebrations are becoming larger, and the demand for idols is on the rise, with Durga Puja being a significant cultural event for the Bengali community in Bengaluru.