Bengaluru idol sellers weigh clay’s cost against demand for coloured Ganeshas

At Pottery Town, Shashikumar of the Kumbara community now buys Ganesha idols from makers in Hosur rather than producing them himself. Space constraints, limited clay supplies and a shortage of skilled labour have changed the family trade, he said.

For sellers preparing for Ganesh Chaturthi, the choice is not straightforward. PoP idols dry in about six hours and can be moulded into detailed designs, while clay idols need to be made months ahead. Large idols, often six to 12 feet tall for pandals, are generally made with PoP and paper because clay versions are heavy and difficult to structure.

Govardhan, another Kumbara community member, said only about 200 families traditionally buy handmade clay idols from his shop. Clay, once sourced around city lakes, is now bought from places including Bagalur Road and Hoskote; a small load costs ₹12,000.

Nandeesh of Bettahalsuru, who makes plain clay idols priced from ₹50 to ₹500, said coloured water paints can still leave chemical residue in water. The Karnataka government has announced a Special Operation Team, assisted by police and other departments, to prevent the manufacture and sale of PoP idols. Bengaluru has already banned PoP Ganesha idols for the Gowri-Ganesha festival.