Bengaluru, Karnataka: As Ganesh Chaturthi approaches, a ground check across Jayanagar, Rajarajeshwari Nagar, Malleswaram, and Pottery Town has revealed that despite a ban imposed by the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP), Plaster of Paris (PoP) idols are still being manufactured and sold across the city.
Vendors continue discreet sales
In several markets, eco-friendly clay and papermaché idols were displayed at stalls, while PoP idols were hidden in back rooms or offsite locations. In Rajarajeshwari Nagar and Jayanagar, smaller clay idols under a foot tall were priced between ₹650 and ₹950, while larger clay or papermaché idols above five feet were sold for ₹15,000 to ₹20,000.
Yashas, a vendor from Jayanagar, explained, “Clay is hard to source, and rains damage the stock. Prices are up 20% from last year.”
In contrast, Malleswaram and Pottery Town vendors openly admitted to stocking PoP idols, citing lower production costs and higher demand. Chittibabu of Kamala Idols stated, “We can produce three times more idols with PoP. Clay takes longer and costs more, from ₹400 for small idols to over ₹20,000 for bigger ones.”
Bribes and hidden stock
Some vendors alleged that raids had forced them to hide stock and even resort to bribes. “PoP sells better, but we keep them hidden. There was a raid on Wednesday, and I had to bribe the police to continue my business,” said Brahmacchariya, a Malleswaram vendor.
Papermaché idols were showcased as alternatives, but the cost difference is stark. Srinivas of Pottery Town said, “Papermaché idols cost ₹20,000 for 10 feet, against ₹60,000 for PoP. But customers prefer PoP for durability.” His neighbour Sharath added that he plans to bring in PoP idols only on August 25 night to evade BBMP inspections.
Struggles of traditional idol makers
The market is also affecting traditional artisans in Davanagere, where cheaper imported idols from Maharashtra and West Bengal are pushing local craftsmen out of business. Shivakumar, a Davanagere craftsman, said, “Imported idols are at least ₹2,000 cheaper. Seasonal vendors spend ₹3–4 lakh on Maharashtra idols and make good profits, but small artisans like us are losing orders.”
Earlier, Shivakumar handled 30 orders per season, but this year he has secured only 15. Idol preparation typically begins six months in advance and involves six to eight workers, but shrinking demand threatens livelihoods.
Cultural initiative for eco-friendly idols
To promote sustainable practices, cultural group Seere will host a ‘Make Your Own Ganesha’ workshop on Sunday at Bugle Rock Park, Basavangudi, from 8:30 am to 11:30 am. Participants are encouraged to wear sarees and bring a plate and a mug. For details, interested individuals may contact 8310868579.
Conclusion
The BBMP faces an uphill battle in enforcing the ban, with vendors citing economic pressures, high production costs of clay idols, and strong consumer demand for PoP alternatives. As environmental concerns mount, workshops and awareness programmes may play a key role in encouraging a shift toward sustainable celebrations.