As Ganesh Chaturthi approaches, artisans in Bengaluru are busy creating intricate and colorful idols of the elephant-headed deity. The festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm across the country and is a major source of income for many artisans in the city, as well as those from other parts of India, including West Bengal.

In Bengaluru, the demand for Ganesha idols increases leading up to the festival, providing a profitable opportunity for these skilled craftsmen. Artisans in the city are using traditional techniques passed down through generations to craft idols of various sizes, ranging from small household ones to large community figures. A variety of materials such as clay, hay, natural pigments, and acrylic colors are used to give the creations a unique appearance.

This year, there has been a surge in the popularity of baby Ganesha idols, or Bal Ganesha, which depict Ganesha as a smiling child. These smaller statues are in high demand and often sell out quickly, reflecting a growing preference for compact Ganesha figures that can be displayed in homes and offices.

To meet the rising demand, many artisans start preparing for Ganesh Chaturthi months in advance. For example, Ramu, a craftsman, crafts between 1,000 and 1,500 idols of various styles and sizes each year.

Furthermore, there is a strong preference among Bengaluru residents for eco-friendly Ganesha idols made from materials like papier-mâché and natural pigments. These environmentally-conscious options have become increasingly popular as customers seek sustainable and biodegradable alternatives to traditional plaster idols.