In Pottery Town, Bengaluru, artisans are busy crafting intricate and colorful idols of Ganesha as Ganesh Chaturthi nears. This festival is a major source of income for many city-based artisans, as well as for those from other parts of India, such as West Bengal. The demand for Ganesha idols in Bengaluru increases before the festival, providing a lucrative opportunity for these skilled craftsmen. Artisans in the city are using traditional techniques passed down through generations to create idols of various sizes, from small household ones to large community figures, using materials like clay, hay, natural pigments, and acrylic colors. This year, there is a growing demand for baby Ganesha idols, known as Bal Ganesha, which are depictions of Ganesha as a smiling child. These smaller statues are becoming increasingly popular and often sell out quickly. Many artisans start preparing for Ganesh Chaturthi months in advance to meet the surge in demand. Eco-friendly Ganesha idols, made from materials like papier-mâché and natural pigments, are also popular among Bengaluru residents who seek sustainable and biodegradable alternatives to traditional plaster idols.