As Ganesh Chaturthi approaches, craftsmen in Bengaluru are busily creating detailed and colorful idols of the elephant-headed deity. This festival is widely celebrated throughout the country and serves as a major source of income for artisans in the city and beyond, including those from regions like West Bengal. The demand for Ganesha idols in Bengaluru rises significantly leading up to the festival, providing a profitable opportunity for these talented artisans. These craftsmen use traditional techniques passed down through generations to make idols of varying sizes, ranging from small household pieces to large community statues. They utilize materials such as clay, hay, natural pigments, and acrylic colors to give their creations a distinct appearance. This year, there is a notable increase in the popularity of baby Ganesha idols, with depictions of Ganesha as a cheerful child being particularly sought after and often selling out quickly. This trend reflects a preference for smaller Ganesha figures that can be showcased in homes and workplaces. To meet the heightened demand, many artisans start preparing for Ganesh Chaturthi well in advance. Eco-friendly Ganesha idols made from materials like papier-mâché and natural pigments are a favorite among Bengaluru residents, demonstrating a shift towards sustainable and biodegradable alternatives to traditional plaster idols in recent years.